By Sihle Mkhize
The biggest outdoor music festival in KwaZulu-Natal, the Durban Jazz Festival, is back.
This event is returning to its traditional venue at the Hazelmere Dam on December 26.
The mega festival is reported to attract nearly 20 000 spectators every year who converge at the dam to enjoy good music and partying.
The organisers are expecting even bigger numbers this year as it returns after a few years’ hiatus owing to Covid-19.
The founder of the Durban Jazz Festival, Mdu Ngcobo said plans are afoot to make sure the event meets its billing once again.
“Once again in 2022, we plan to put together a spectacular world-class event that will also showcase local performers.
“We are truly grateful to our long-standing partner eThekwini Municipality for supporting our event that will take place at Hazelmere Dam, Verulam.
“The line-up will be released in due course,” said Ngcobo. This year’s instalment promises to host over 20 artists from around the country, Africa, and the rest of the world.
The cornerstone of the event will be a Tribute Golden Hour. This is when some of Africa’s internationally renowned jazz legends who performed at the Durban Jazz will be honoured.
These include but are not limited to the likes of Busi Mhlongo, Hugh Masekela, Oliver Mtukudzi, Ray Phiri, Robbie Malinga and Sipho Gumede.
Mayor of eThekwini Municipality Mxolisi Kaunda said: “We are excited that all our signature events are back in full swing after Covid-19.
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“The pandemic adversely affected the entertainment industry. These events contribute immensely to job creation and economic growth.”
In the past 20 years the event has hosted over 400 artists. Gates will open at 10am, tickets are available at Webtickets.
Early Bird prices are R295 for general access and R400 for Golden Circle. These Early Bird tickets are only available until November 24. VIP tickets are available at a cost of R3 000 each.
