They brought audiences the hugely popular Swingle Bells, Swingin’ Las Vegas (in both 2024 and 2025) and Jonathan Roxouth – My Favourite Broadway: all shows packed to the hilt with hits celebrating iconic genres, theatre and joyful holiday celebrations. Now Howard Events, powered by HOT 1027, returns to Montecasino’s Teatro with A Festive Swing, featuring the Johannesburg Big Band, conducted by Maestro Adam Howard and powerhouse performers Ross Learmonth (Ex Prime Circle), Monique Steyn, Tracey-Lee Oliver and Harry Sideropoulos. A Festive Swing will run for eight performances only from 11 – 20 December 2026, with tickets available only from Webtickets.
Adding momentum to a fantastic new Johannesburg holiday tradition, A Festive Swing is a show that invites the entire family to celebrate the festive season– the love, the joy and their shared memories. The arrangements are an energetic fusion of swinging jazz, classic big band sounds and seasonal cheer.
Beloved Christmas productions from around the world provide inspiration for this show, with evergreen traditions re-interpreted for a local audience. The acclaimed 18-piece Johannesburg Big Band provides an elegant, textured, punchy backing for the vocals of some of South Africa’s most esteemed vocalists. Ross Learmonth is a leading light of the country’s rock scene, both as founder and frontman of Prime Circle and now in his solo career. Monique Steyn was a top competitor in the first season of Idols South Africa and has been releasing well-regarded albums since 2010. Tracey-Lee Oliver is a singer, actress and comedian who has appeared in major musicals (Dreamgirls), been part of the Kings and Queens of Comedy National Tour and attracted rave reviews while competing in TV projects including Project Fame and The Voice. And Harry Sideropoulos is a singer, comedian and celebrity chef who has delighted fans for decades with his gravelly voice and exuberant personality.
As well as the Johannesburg Big Band and phenomenal vocalists, A Festive Swing incorporates striking visuals, immersive staging making for a full theatrical experience. Instantly recognisable holiday favourites, all treated with a big band twist, fill a setlist designed to evoke nostalgia, warmth, family, love, and connection. Audiences can expect everything from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bell Rock, Baby It’s Cold Outside, Winter Wonderlandto Somer Kersfees – plus many more, ensuring there’s something for everyone, old and young, to enjoy!
Producers Adam and Belinda Howard of Howard Events are excited: “Our first show was Swingle Bells, and audience reactions was a wonderful outpouring of affection that proved that Johannesburg needed a feel-good festive musical spectacular. What better way to celebrate the Festive Season with family and loved ones than with a Johannesburg Big Band show?”
The Howards love the holidays as much as their audiences: “December is our favourite time of year, and we have always wanted to create a special Christmas show. With the incredible artists joining us this year, we promise this show is not to be missed! We all lead such busy lives, so to be able to come together with family and friends, sing along to the songs and have a few laughs in between is what this time of year should always be about.”
There will only be eight chances to experience this unforgettable festive performance! A Festive Swing is a premium holiday spectacular that brings the joy of Christmas to life on stage; a multi‑sensory celebration that includes moments of humour, surprise and reflection. Whether it’s heart-warming harmonies or toe-tapping rhythms, A Festive Swing will leave you feeling merry and bright, whether you are four or 94! Book now at webtickets.co.za or Pick n Pay outlets. Discounts for groups of 10 or more, senior citizens, scholars under 12 and students apply. Have yourself a merry little Christmas this year: treat yourself to A Festive Swing!
SHOW INFORMATION
JOHANNESBURG: Montecasino’s Teatro
Friday, 11 December to Sunday, 20 December 2026
SHOW TIMES:
Friday 11 and 18 December: 19h00
Saturday 12 and 19 December: 14h00 and 19h00
Sunday 13 and 20 December: 14h00
TICKET PRICES including VAT
R240.00 to R490.00
BOOKINGS: webtickets.co.za or Pick n Pay outlets
Only valid tickets purchased from Webtickets or Pick n Pay outlets
may be presented.
DISCOUNTS AND GROUP BOOKINGS
Discounts for groups of 10 or more, senior citizens, scholars under 12 and students apply.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
No children under 3 years permitted