Newtown cultural precinct to come alive this weekend as a new Jazz festival is to launch

By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor

Without a doubt it used to be Johannesburg’s most culturally inspiring hubs where everybody used to go to watch intellectually stimulating productions at the Market Theatre, soulful Jazz at Kippies, or at Newtown cultural precinct’s most enduring jazz venue, Niki’s Oasis. Those were the years when Newtown cultural precinct was alive with great music, great theatre and great company. But over the years, the place’s liveliness as a spot in Johannesburg that was pregnant with infectious cultural vibe waned, to the disappointment of many.

However one woman, who has become more than a jazz promoter at her joint, Niki’s Oasis, and instead is regarded as a jazz activist by default in recent years, Simnikiwe Sondlo, with the support of other stakeholders want to see Newtown cultural precinct become a vibrant place once more. A place of choice for both visitors to Johannesburg, and residents who want to immerse themselves in culture in general, and in the beautiful art of jazz in particular.

Through her newly formed foundation aptly called Niki’s Heritage and Creative Arts Foundation, whose forerunner is obviously her famous jazz joint Niki’s Oasis, Sondlo, together with other stakeholders with a vested interest in a Newtown that is alive and attractive to audiences –South African Roadies Association (Sara), the Market Theatre, which runs a full programme of captivating theatrical productions throughout the year, and a new initiative called Bantu Kraal, are this weekend kick-starting the revival of Newtown.

All those involved in the revival of the Newtown cultural precinct are interested in seeing this place become vibrant again as they call this place home and have throughout the years played an important role in making sure that Newtown does not lose its shine as a place of cultural renaissance in post Apartheid South Africa.

Of course the Market Theatre is well known for its role in the liberation efforts of this country, through its staging overtly politically charged plays that gave apartheid authorities sleepless nights, and in post Apartheid South Africa, the institution continues to put up productions that are socially relevant and intellectually stimulating and engage with audiences in a meaningful way. Niki’s Oasis, a jazz venue and eatery that was launched one year after democracy in 1995, has since become legendary, especially in being a home to jazz. Among other big names that have graced the stages of Niki’s Oasis over the years, include Sipho Hostix Mabuse, Khaya Mahlangu, Dr Nduduzo Makhathini, Yonela Mnana, Thandi Klaasen, Lauren Klaasen, Feya Faku, Zim Ngqawana and Sydney Mnisi.

In a way it was natural for Niki’s Oasis to have given birth to Niki’s Heritage and Creative Arts Foundation in recent years, and whose vision includes: “Unleashing South Africa’s vibrant soul through music, empowering artists, igniting creativity, and enriching lives,” and its mission: “Building a thriving, interconnected jazz ecosystem in South Africa through artist support, audience engagement, and cultural bridging.”

This weekend starting on Friday, January 26, 2024, the festival, being hosted at Niki’s Oasis and at the Market Theatre’s John Kani Theatre, the cultural precinct will be a hive of cultural activity as it will witness the launch of the Newtown Heritage and Jazz Theatre. This festival, which in effect marks the beginning of several planned festivities that will take place in the cultural precinct throughout the year, is the brain child of Niki’s Heritage and Creative Arts Foundation, and is supported by the Market Theatre and South African Roadies’ Association.

The event starts on Friday, January 26, 2023, with the unveiling of Bantu Kraal to the public, with an exciting lineup of vendors, cultural experiences, and live entertainment. Also on Friday, Katlego Phahlane and The Bart Band, wil,l peform at Niki’s Oasis, followed by the Lunga G and Quintet. The legacy Jazz ensemble will then take over the stage, afte which the stage bwill belong to a guest artist, non other than opera star and jazz vocalist Sibongile Mngoma.

The on Saturday, January 27, 2024,the Market Theatre Time: 4pm, music lovers will be entertained by Mandla Mlangeni at 4pm, after which the Bokang Ramatlapeng Quintet, with Bokang Ramatlapeng Vox, Lex Futshane – Double Bass, Mdu Mtshali – Piano, Sidney Mnisi – Tenor Saxophone, Stanley Matlou – Drums, featuring international Guest Artists, will take over.

On Sunday, January 28, 2024, there will be a session with female Djs on the decks at Niki’s Oasis, and at the time of publication, the organisers had not revealed the names of the DJs who will entertain music lovers. However watch social media platforms for the latest details on the line up.

The organisers are promising a fun filled weekend ofr music and cultural immersion and therefore are asking the public to come out in big numbers.

”Get ready to be swept away by the pulsating rhythms of Johannesburg’s heart as the Newtown Jazz & Heritage Festival launches in 2024! This ground-breaking event, hosted by the Niki’s Heritage & Creative Arts Foundation in collaboration with the Market Theater Foundation; and the Best of South African Jazz supported by South African Roadies Association (SARA), promises a fusion of music, art, and cultural celebration unlike any other, taking place from 25 January 2024 to 26 January 2024.

More than just a concert, the Newtown Jazz & Heritage Festival is a cultural renaissance. Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry woven from:

• The soulful sounds of jazz: From seasoned legends like [Headliner Names] to rising stars pushing musical boundaries, prepare to be captivated by a diverse soundscape.

• A celebration of heritage: Delve into art exhibitions, interactive workshops, and captivating performances that ignite Johannesburg’s rich historical tapestry.

• Nurturing future talent: Witness the next generation of jazz greats take the stage as the festival champions emerging artists through dedicated platforms and masterclasses.

• Globally recognized, locally grown: We showcase South African talent on a global stage, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy.

• Fuelling the creative future: Every note counts in supporting the ongoing work of the Niki’s Heritage & Creative Arts Foundation, building a sustainable future for the creative industries.

Join us for a week of:

• Live music performances: From intimate sessions to electrifying main stage shows, experience the power of jazz in all its forms.

• Art exhibitions and workshops: Explore the visual tapestry of Johannesburg’s heritage and unleash your own artistic spirit through interactive workshops.

• Captivating talks and discussions: Delve into the rich history of jazz and Johannesburg’s vibrant cultural scene through engaging talks and panel discussions.

• Delicious food and drinks: Savor a diverse range of culinary delights while soaking in the festival atmosphere.

• Family-friendly activities: Bring the whole family for a day of music, art, and cultural discovery.

Be part of a cultural movement: Your support, whether through attending the festival, becoming a sponsor, or volunteering, makes a difference. Help us

ensure this ground-breaking event thrives and leaves a lasting legacy of creative vibrancy and artistic excellence.

Visit our pages and follow us on social media [Instagram: Niki’s Oasis Jazz Restaurant Facebook: Niki’s Oasis Jazz Restaurant] for the latest updates and festival tickets.”

Program of events

Newtown JazzFest

26th & 27th Jan Time: 16h00pm

Friday 26th @Niki’s

Katlego Phahlane & The Bart Band

Lunga Gubelana Quintet

Legacy Jazz Ensemble

Guest: Sibongile Mngoma

Saturday 27th @ Market Theatre Time: 16h00pm

Mandla Mlangeni

Bokang Ramatlapeng Quintet

Bokang Ramatlapeng Vox

Lex Futshane – Double Bass

Mdu Mtshali – Piano

Sidney Mnisi – Tenor Saxophone

Stanley Matlou – Drums

Featuring: 5 International Guest Artists

Entrance: Free but donations are encouraged.