Good music forms part of a revamped Taste, which will help launch The Levee as a lifestyle precinct.

“Taste will be my first time playing for a foodie crowd, but I’m really looking forward to it,” Mitchell, who goes by the stage name De’May, said. 

“I’m secretly excited to explore the festival after my set and try out all the food.”

The musical line-up includes Dan Johnston, Dan Southward, Dave Wells, Elwood Myre, Gareth Hudson, Jack Dawson, Jake Folbigg, James Osborn, James Thomson, Jason Lowe, Magpie Johnston, Matt Semmens, Middle Sea, Ramblin Bones, Soul, Shakedown DJs, and William Crighton.

Mitchell will play songs from her first album If We Don’t Leave Now and covers of Neil Young, The Doors and Tom Waits. 

“I think that fine food, good music and expressive art all go hand-in-hand,” Mitchell said. 

“They help to create enthralling atmospheres and in turn create a culturally rich environment where people take the time to stop and stimulate their senses and enjoy life, which is especially important in our current technological society.” 

Maitland City Council events manager Adam Franks said his team had worked hard to tailor the festival to the new space.

“It’s exciting how all the different aspects are coming together with the trees and furniture,” he said.

“Obviously, this is the first time it will be used this way and I’m sure lots of people will be interested to have a look.”

The Levee will be closed to traffic for Taste, but for people eager to see Taste and The Levee on March 7 and 8 there will be parking nearby in St Andrews Street and Ken Tubman Drive. 

“We have given the event a makeover that will see pop-up stalls and eating spaces made from recycled and upcycled materials,” Mr Franks said.

“This year, Maitland Taste will offer visitors the chance to talk to local produce growers for inspiration in their own gardens, see how to create enjoyable dishes to excite the appetite, and taste some of the many unique flavours from a range of food and wine stalls.”