Marking a temporary departure from its traditional March slot, this year’s festival re-emerges on 3 and 4 May 2024 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) to deliver a musical experience that has been sorely missed. Four reimagined stages will welcome artists and festivalgoers (Festinos) for Africa’s premier jazz celebration. Formerly known as Kippies, Moses Molelekwa, and Rosies, these stages now bear the illustrious names of Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald respectively, add a new outside stage Topaz, and the scene is set for a sparkling showcase of both seasoned maestros and rising stars from across the
globe.
As anticipation mounts, Lindsay Rhoda, Head of Talent at CTIJF, hints at an electrifying fusion of
heritage and innovation that is sure to appeal to local and international audiences. She says: “We
have worked hard over the past few months to compile a programme that pays homage to the
heritage of our jazz roots, but also speaks to the exciting future of music that is embracing all jazz-
related genres as anthems for a new tomorrow.”
Helping to get the long-awaited party started are the following artists who are just some of the stars
on the 2024 ‘reset-connect’ line-up who will appear on some of the stages (see below for bios):
- Matt Bianco (UK)
- Kokoroko (UK)
- The Yussef Dayes Experience (UK)
- Nduduzo Makhathini Trio featuring Omagugu (SA)
- Mandisi Dyantyis (SA)
- Radio Sechaba (SA)
- Billy Monama (SA)
- Zoë Modiga (SA)
- Carlo Mombelli & The Prisoners of Strange (SA)
- Benjamin Jephta presents “Born coloured, not born-free” (SA)
- Kujenga (SA).
There is something else on offer at this year’s CTIJF, injecting fresh energy into the festival’s
atmosphere – the all-new Flavour Junction, which is located on the ground floor, outside, alongside
the Topaz stage. Here, there will be food trucks, a selection of bars, and tantalizing treats ensuring
that Festinos stay fuelled all night long. For those seeking a more refined dining experience, a
selection of upscale options await just beyond the main stage. This year too, there will be the
Howler cashless system.
Festival organisers, espAfrika, have also unveiled a revamped VIP hospitality offering that epitomises
the spirit of camaraderie. Introducing Jazz Ensemble, a luxurious lounge boasting a sumptuous
buffet and complimentary beverages, serving as the ideal gathering point for socializing and
networking. Meanwhile, Jazz Café offers an alternative experience for Festinos wanting a little more
than a general admission ticket, which grants access to complimentary catering and a dedicated cash
bar (the bar will also use the Howler system). And that’s not all – back by popular demand are the enlightening artist masterclasses which will also be held at the CTICC on Friday 3 rd and Saturday 4 th May, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to glean insights from some of the industry’s finest music minds. Please visit the website for more information: www.capetownjazzfest.com/