As Africa’s grandest gathering is set to take place this week, Cape Town is expected to be a hub of melodies as jazz events take place until Saturday, March 28.
The Mother City is set to come alive with music, culture, and creativity.
Anchored by the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), a dynamic mix of jazz-centric events, including the annual free public jazz concert.
Mayoral committee member for safety and security, Alderman JP Smith, said the CTIJF remains one of the continent’s premier live music events.
“Last year, it attracted over 16,000 attendees from across South Africa and more than 20 other countries, injecting millions into the local economy. The Free Concert provides an inclusive musical experience for those who aren’t able to attend the main festival. The City’s support for these events reflects its commitment to enabling inclusive, accessible and world-class experiences,” Smith said.
The CTIJF will be bringing major performances, pop-up shows around the city, panel discussions, and masterclasses.
Free jazz concert
The free jazz concert will be taking place on Wednesday in Greenmarket Square, offering a free, open-air musical experience.
The lineup of artists includes: Joneca, Zolani Mahola, Cameron Ward, Justin-Lee, Zoe Madinga, and Shiela E. & The E-Train.
“Beyond entertainment, the event plays a meaningful role in community upliftment, creating employment opportunities, supporting local talent, and providing hands-on experience for emerging professionals in the events and creative industries,” Smith said.
Gates open at 4pm and the concert kicks off at 6pm.
Road closures
The City of Cape Town has advised residents and motorists of temporary road closures that will be implemented in and around Greenmarket Square from 6am on Tuesday, March 24, until 6am Thursday, March 26.
The following roads will be impacted:
- Burg Street (between Wale and Longmarket streets)
- Longmarket Street (between Long and Adderley streets)
- Shortmarket Street (between St George’s Mall and Long Street)
Additional partial closures on Burg and Church streets will be implemented on the event day.
International Jazz Festival
The CTIJF will take place over two nights, featuring world-class performances across multiple stages at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival takes place on Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28.
The lineup features over 30 dynamic international artists alongside South Africa’s finest talent, set to deliver a diverse programme spanning jazz, soul, Afro-fusion, and more.
Attendees can expect eight hours of live music on both evenings from 6pm until 2am.
Doors will open at 4pm.
Road closures
The City of Cape Town will be implementing the following road closures:
- Walter Sisulu Avenue (between Lower Long and Heerengracht streets): From 6am Wednesday, March 25, until 5pm on Sunday, March 29.
- FW de Klerk Boulevard (between Heerengracht and Lower Long streets): From 4pm on Friday, March 27, until 3am on Sunday, March 29.
- Lower Long Street (between FW de Klerk Boulevard and Walter Sisulu Avenue): From 4pm on Friday, March 27, until 3am on Sunday, March 29.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
IOL
