King Charles Hits DJ Decks During Manchester Visit
Image: Geo News

King Charles Hits DJ Decks During Manchester Visit

16 March, 2026.Britain.2 sources

Key Takeaways

  • King Charles III visited Aviva Studios in Manchester, home of Factory International.
  • He met young people at Aviva Studios during the visit.
  • The visit spotlighted a partnership helping youths build backstage careers in events.

Royal DJ Attempt

King Charles III engaged in an informal and lighthearted music experience during his visit to Manchester's Aviva Studios.

- Published The King has admitted he was "trying to get a hang of it" after hitting the DJ decks while on a visit to Manchester

BBCBBC

He attempted DJing under the guidance of a young trainee during his tour of the arts venue, home of Factory International.

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The monarch's visit aimed to highlight The King's Trust charity's work supporting young people in the creative industries.

Aspiring DJ Christian St Louis, a 22-year-old from Middleton, invited the King to try his hand at the mixing desk.

Christian offered instructions on track loading and operation during this musical interaction.

The King acknowledged the complexity of the equipment, responding with 'I'm trying to get the hang of it' when an onlooker noted it wasn't as easy as it looked.

This casual interaction demonstrated a departure from traditional royal engagements, showing Charles willing to engage with hands-on activities alongside younger generations.

Youth Development Focus

The King's visit to Manchester was part of a broader initiative focused on youth development through creative industries.

It specifically highlighted the Creative Futures 'Get Into Event Production' programme.

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This collaborative program offers hands-on experience in event production for young people.

Participants learn about staging, lighting, sound equipment, and technical setups used in major performances.

The King's Trust partnership delivers this programme to help young people gain industry-relevant skills.

It's designed specifically for those seeking careers in the creative and live-events sector.

During his visit, Charles demonstrated support for youth empowerment by participating in the DJ activity.

He also unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the royal visit and acknowledging the successful collaboration.

Trainee's Perspective

Christian St Louis, the aspiring DJ who guided the King through the DJ deck, highlighted the transformative impact of The King's Trust.

- Published The King has admitted he was "trying to get a hang of it" after hitting the DJ decks while on a visit to Manchester

BBCBBC

The 22-year-old Middleton resident explained that taking a DJing course through the trust had been 'more than helpful'.

This support was crucial in his pursuit of a career in music production and performance.

Christian, who had prepared equipment and instruments as part of his training, found the experience particularly valuable.

He emphasized how the programme helped him make professional connections in the industry.

The young trainee demonstrated his expertise by joking with the monarch about the challenges of DJing.

He asked 'It's not as easy as it looks, is it?' which prompted a drawn-out 'Noooo' response from the King.

This exchange revealed both the technical learning curve and the friendly, approachable nature of their interaction.

Modern Royal Engagement

The King's visit to Manchester demonstrated continued commitment to supporting arts and creative industries.

It showcased a more personal side of the monarch as he engaged with contemporary music technology.

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During his time at Aviva Studios, Charles was seen enjoying a slice of cake while meeting participants and staff.

This emphasized the informal and approachable nature of the royal engagement.

The visit highlighted The King's Trust effectiveness in providing practical opportunities for young people.

It specifically targeted sectors that often face barriers to entry like the creative industries.

By participating in the DJ activity and acknowledging the event production programme,

King Charles reinforced the importance of hands-on skill development and mentorship.

This engagement represented a modern approach to royal patronage, focusing on practical support rather than ceremonial appearances.

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