Did you know Maidstone was the name of a crater on Mars?

A new festival in the County Town pays homage to the fact by bringing together art, space and science.

From Saturday, June 24 to Sunday, July 16 - inspired by the red planet - the Maidstone International Arts Festival will bring together top-ranking artists and musicians, including performers and staff from the Royal Ballet and Royal Opera House, with local choral and dance groups, culminating in a gala concert.

Organised by Maidstone Area Arts Partnership and cross-cultural festival organisers Baltic Art Form, the festival opens with an art exhibition at Maidstone Museum and the Mall on Saturday, June 24, and is rounded off with performances on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16, in Brenchley Gardens, St Faith’s Church, the museum, Mote Park Leisure Centre and All Saints Church.

The programme consists of 13 workshops, more than 60 live performers, three lectures and an art exhibition.

MAAP chairman Ken Scott said: "Mars represents the next big exploratory challenge for mankind. The festival, in bringing together a rare combination of different talents, offers wonderfully varied entertainment and the challenge to imagine a new future.

"It is our mission to encourage public participation in the arts and to support local artists to improve the wellbeing of both individuals and the wider community. The Festival marks a significant development, as the arts organisations of Maidstone begin to come together to help promote our County Town and celebrate its rich cultural diversity."

For details and booking go to maidstoneinternationalartsfestival.org