Sheila E. and The E-Train brought their signature rhythm and energy to the CTIJF free concert, delivering a dynamic performance that had the crowd dancing.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) free community concert took place on Wednesday, March 25, at Greenmarket Square in the Cape Town City Centre.
The open-air event acted as a prelude to the main festival, which runs on Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 29, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
The concert ran from 4pm to 10pm and featured a mix of local South African talent alongside international performers. Artists on the line-up included Joneca, Sheila E. and The E-Train, Justin-Lee, Zoë Modiga, Cameron Ward and Zolani Mahola.
Reflecting the festival’s commitment to community engagement and cultural celebration, the event aims to make world-class jazz accessible to a wider audience.
Justin-Lee shared his experience on social media, saying, “Cape Town was beautiful. Thanks for showing some love.”
Justin-Lee delivered a memorable performance at the CTIJF free concert, captivating the audience with his energy and stage presence.
Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers
Musical group Biko’s Manna also commented after meeting him: “We finally got to meet our boy Justin-Lee. Yho, we are such huge fans! It was honestly so lovely meeting you. You were absolutely incredible on stage - your presence is out of this world. We are constantly inspired by your work ethic and the way you carry your gift.”
Modiga expressed her excitement before taking the stage: “So excited to be on this year’s line-up for the absolutely FREE concert taking place at Greenmarket Square today.
"The last time we were on this particular CTIJF stage was for our debut solo performance in 2015. It is a full circle moment to be making some magic with you again.”
Sheila E. and The E-Train brought their signature rhythm and energy to the CTIJF free concert, delivering a dynamic performance that had the crowd dancing.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, spoke of the City’s partnership with the festival: “We are thrilled to once again welcome the Cape Town International Jazz Festival to our beautiful city.
"Now in its 23rd edition, this iconic event has become one of our most beloved and well-attended festivals - and one of the best jazz events on the entire continent – showcasing the incredible vibrancy and diversity of Cape Town through its ever-expanding music offerings."
"From the two festival days at the CTICC to the free concert at Greenmarket Square, there really is something for everyone. I invite all Capetonians to come and immerse themselves in the magic of live music. Wishing all the musicians and music fans a fantastic festival!”
The festival also offers other free activities. A Jacob Collier masterclass and Q&A will take place today at the CTICC Auditorium 1. The session is free but requires a pre-booked ticket.
In addition, the Rosies stage removed its additional surcharge for the first time, allowing performances to be accessed by all main festival ticket holders at no extra cost.
Tickets for the 2026 CTIJF are available through Ticketmaster, with Buy Now Pay Later options on Loot. Festival organisers encourage early ticket purchase due to high demand.
For updates, follow @capetowninternationaljazzfest on social media and visit the festival website.