‘Happy’ jazz tribute

Jonathan Rubain will stage his show Cape Jazz Is Lekker! next month.

Jonathan Rubain will pay tribute to the legends of the South African jazz industry in Cape Jazz Is Lekker! at the Baxter Theatre, from Monday December 11 to Saturday January 13.

Rubain, originally from Hanover Park, will honour artists including Robbie Jansen, Abdullah Ibrahim, Basil Manenberg Coetzee and Zayn Adam.

“Cape Jazz has a unique sound which can only be heard in Cape Town and are best played by musicians from the city. It is a festive season show which will be full of energetic performances and songs that will uplift people’s spirits,” says Rubain.

Cape Jazz Is Lekker! is production number eight for Rubain as a show producer and it his biggest stage production to date.

“I could not believe when I was given the opportunity to do the festive run at the Baxter. I grabbed it with both hands. The opportunity is bigger than myself, but coming from the Cape Flats, I have learnt not to be scared of anything – no matter how big it might seem,” he said.

“The show will be filled with ghoema songs and music that will make people happy. We will also cover a few of the biggest Cape Jazz songs.”

Joining Rubain on stage will be Kyle Shepherd on piano; Cape Jazz legend Hilton Schilder; multi-talented musician and guitar specialist, Dave Ledbetter; guitarist, Allou April as well as vocalist Candice Thornton.

All the artists will be accompanied by a backing band under the direction of Spencer Kennedy.

Tickets cost from R100 to R250. Book through Computicket.