Monday, 8 September: Arts Alive Media Launch 2025/26
This week on arts production in Johannesburg kicked off with Arts Alive Joburg hosting the media launch for its 2025/26 programmes at the Joburg Theatre. The event opened with a harmonious performance by the Soweto Theatre Youth Orchestra, setting a vibrant tone for the day.
The Director of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ACH), Vuyisile Mshudulu, provided a comprehensive overview of the forthcoming programmes, establishing a solid foundation for an exhilarating year ahead.
The keynote address was presented by the MMC for Community Development, Cllr. Tebogo Nkokou discussed the influence of artistic programming on the City of Johannesburg and its communities. This was succeeded by a panel discussion, moderated by Gaisang Sethekge, which included prominent cultural partners: Mr. Lesole Tauatswala (Basha Uhuru Freedom Festival), Ms. Thandeka Nheke (Ka Lebitso La Moya Theatre Production), Mr. Osmic Menoe (Back to the City Festival), and Ms. Shado Thwala (The Craft & Design Institute – CDI).
Infusing a creative touch, Mr. Keabetswe Blessing Ndlovu recited a poignant piece of melodic poetry before the second panel discussion, which was moderated by Mr. Vuyisile Mshudulu. This session featured: Mr. Nkosinathi Mzila (Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo – JCPZ) and Mr. Shane Maja (Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation).
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Ntshuxeko Manganye, followed by a highly anticipated performance by Malcolm Jiyane, which left the audience feeling inspired and invigorated.
Tuesday, 9 September: KB Cooper’s New Music
KB Cooper, a South African artist hailing from Makhanda is a multifaceted talent encompassing the roles of musician, radio presenter, dancer, and DJ. He has gained recognition for his contributions to the Amapiano genre, with popular tracks such as “UmthandazoKaLova” and albums like Trouble In Paradise. Additionally, Cooper is a podcaster and content creator, notably founding IsgaxaPodcast.
His highly anticipated new single, KwaMai-Mai, has finally been released.
Wednesday, 10 September
Cape Town’s Homecoming Centre sets the stage for Mannenberg Jazz!
Experience Zolani Mahola, Ernie Smith, and Mark Fransman in a special showcase of South African jazz this month, in the perfect lead-in to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz.
Friday, 12 September: Ndabo Zulu & The Umgidi Ensemble Revisited
The star-studded Umgidi Ensemble remains one of South Africa’s most exhilarating musical collectives. To witness the ensemble in its full curatorial force is a rare privilege — a cultural moment that only happens when schedules and stars align.
This Heritage Month, Ndabo Zulu revisits Queen Nandi: The African Symphony — the multi-award-winning, critically acclaimed debut of the Umgidi Ensemble. For this special occasion, he will be joined by some of our favourite musicians, making it an unforgettable night of music and memory.
Adding to the excitement, we are honoured to share a preview of fresh sounds from the forthcoming Umgidi Ensemble album — set to be released soon.
Umgidi holds a special place in our collective story. Its ambition, vision, and the sheer brilliance of the artists it brings together remain a testament to the innovative spirit of the South African music scene.
12 – 13 September: Market Theatre Open Day
The Open Day will provide learners with insights into potential career paths in the arts, allow them to hear about the experiences of both current and former students, and offer networking opportunities. The event will include engaging panel discussions, a professional photo studio experience, a workshop tailored for aspiring photographers, an exhibition walkabout, thrilling dance challenges, and performances by students from The Market Lab, along with MTF’s entry-level professional theatre company, Kwasha! Theatre. Additionally, participants will have the chance to tour The Market Theatre Complex, gaining knowledge about the rich heritage of this iconic venue.
Sunday, 13 September – Barumi Exclusive Album Preview
On Sunday, at the Kasillery Creative Hub, 122 Nyaweni Street, Kwa-Thema, the gates will open at 16:00 for the Barumi exclusive album preview. Tickets are priced at R70 – contact details for tickets: 069 119 1690.
10 – 13 September: Jomba
The Market Theatre, in partnership with the Centre for Creative Arts, presents the third annual JOMBA! at The Market Theatre, which brings together an evocative programme of contemporary dance works that speak to personal, political, and ancestral journeys across Africa and beyond.
For more Info: https://markettheatre.co.za/jomba-3/
Book your tickets: 
083 246 4950 / anthonye@markettheatre.co.za
Sunday, 14 September: Re-staging of Sarafina! at Soweto Theatre
Don’t miss out on the special re-staging of Sarafina! at Soweto Theatre.
It’s going to be a powerful concert version that pays tribute to the Ngema family’s enduring legacy. Get your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable experience!
Tickets: R120
Date: 14 September 2025
Time: 15h00
Venue: Gibson Kente Theatre
Wednesday, 17 September: Ndlovu Youth Choir is coming to the Soweto Theatre
The internationally acclaimed Ndlovu Youth Choir will be performing at the Soweto Theatre on Wednesday, 17 September. Renowned for their impressive vocal abilities, engaging choreography, and distinctive renditions of popular songs such as Africa, Higher Love, and Shape of You, this is a show you will not want to overlook. From Carnegie Hall to Montecasino, the choir has enchanted audiences worldwide, and now you have the opportunity to witness their enchanting performance live!
Tickets can be purchased now through Webtickets.
26-28 September – Standard Bank Jazz of Joy
Get ready for jazz it up! Standard Bank Jazz of Joy (#SBJOJ2025) is lighting up. Standard Bank Joy of Jazz – Feel the Jazz. Deep in the Heart of Jazz, Take Me There!
The 2025 Standard Bank Joy of Jazz returns with the promise of exhilarating experiences for music lovers to fall deep in love with Jazz.
Africa’s premier jazz festival takes place on 26, 27, and 28 September 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, with an exciting line-up of headlining jazz stars from across the world.
Three days of festivities, showcasing world-acclaimed local and international talent.
Three days, 4 stages, and over 50 acts, avid jazz lovers can expect nothing but to be enticed at the forthcoming South Africa’s Premier Jazz Festival.
Sunday, 21 September: Phila Dlozi live at the Untitled Basement
Untitled Basement is excited to extend an invitation to an extraordinary evening featuring Phila Dlozi — one of the most promising young musicians emerging from South Africa. An Afro-Soul/Jazz phenomenon, Phila Dlozi blends contemporary sounds with traditional and spiritual influences, creating music that is rich in relatable narratives and wisdom that belies his age.
His musical journey commenced in KwaSokhulu, a small village near Richards Bay, where a childhood experience with Joyous Celebration sparked his aspiration for a musical career. From Durban to Johannesburg, Phila’s narrative is one of bravery, perseverance, and self-confidence. Since 2021, he has transformed from a powerful voice on the streets into a celebrated artist whose discography connects diverse cultures and generations.
His music has garnered international acclaim — featured on Mzilikazi wa Afrika’s Pan-African album RISE alongside legends such as Salif Keita, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, and Brenda Mtambo. His talent has also attracted the interest of American Grammy-nominated producer Jason Evigan, resulting in Phila’s invitation to the 64th Grammy Awards in Las Vegas.
Phila’s voice and vision transcend music. He is featured in the international documentary Move Me South Africa by Briana Evigan, which has been honored at global film festivals. Nevertheless, despite all his achievements, he remains profoundly connected to his roots. Raised by a healer, Phila now upholds that legacy — healing the world through the power of music. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to witness Phila Dlozi live in concert.
Saturday, 27 September: Phupho L’ka Biko presents ‘Vuleka Mbobo, Mbobo Vuleka! [est 2015]’
Book your tickets to catch this one-night-only sonic remembrance of the #FeesMustFall Movement 10 years on. iPhupho L’ka Biko is a musical offspring of the historic student revolt, which will mark a decade of its establishment, while honouring the bold bodies that stood between state violence and the dream inherited.
Venue: Market Theatre
Date: 27 September 2025
Time: 7 PM
Book your tickets://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=157434871
Sunday, 28 September: KBEE presents “Love and Love Again” (Live at the Basement)
On the bandstand, he will be accompanied by a world-class ensemble that includes Louis Mahlangu (on Guitar), Basi Mahlasela (on Percussion), Michael Phillips (on Bass), and Rob Watson (on Drums).
KBEE is a young multi-instrumentalist, singer, composer, and producer whose debut album combines R&B, soul, Southern African rhythms, and experimental sound design.
Under the mentorship of his father, Louis Mhlanga, and drawing inspiration from a lineage of great musicians, his sound is both bold and respectful — blending acoustic mastery with contemporary production techniques.
This album, which represents his first public body of work, is the result of years of close collaborations with living legends — a unique debut where the insights of experienced musicians converge with youthful curiosity.