Ego Ella May to Headline Queertopia.za: A Celebration of Queer Culture in Johannesburg

Joburg’s most anticipated queer festival, Queertopia.za, is returning with a bang, and this time it features an international act guaranteed to get the city talking. The 2024 event was successful and showcased electrifying performances by Thandiswa Mazwai and Buhlebendalo. This year’s festival will headline international singer-songwriter Ego Ella May. She is sure to draw crowds eager to secure their tickets.

Ego Ella May is renowned for her ability to blend jazz, R&B, and neo-soul. She captivates audiences worldwide with her poetic lyrics and smooth, emotive vocals. Her critically acclaimed debut album, Honey For Wounds, garnered her significant recognition. She received a prestigious MOBO Award for Best Jazz Act in 2020. Ego Ella May has a discography that emphasizes introspection and self-discovery. Her latest release is FIELDNOTES: COMPLETE. She crafts music that transcends genres. This offers listeners a deeply immersive and transformative experience.

Queertopia.za is the brainchild of Andiswa Dlamini and Kefiloe Siwisa, who operate under their entity Other Village People. They have consistently worked to create safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies in South Africa. The festival will take place at the historic Constitutional Hill in Johannesburg on March 1-2, 2025. This venue has hosted Queertopia.za for the past three years. It serves as a powerful reminder of South Africa’s journey toward democracy. It also endorses the rights of all citizens.

This year’s festival promises an exciting array of activities beyond music, including art exhibitions, wellness experiences, and food stalls. The music line-up includes an impressive roster of artists. Notable performers are Bongeziwe Mabandla, Langa Mavuso, Lia Butler, Zoe Modiga, DJ Tshegu, Litsmo, Dato Seiko, and many more.

For first-time attendees, the opening day will include the raising of the Queertopia.za flag as a tribute to celebrating queer lives and allies dedicated to serving and protecting the community. The event aims to foster connection and inclusivity. There will be no judgment based on race, class, gender identity, or any form of harassment.

Tickets for Queertopia.za are available starting at R350. Given the high demand anticipated this year due to Ego Ella May’s headline performance, early purchase is encouraged. Tickets available here.

Queertopia.za is proudly supported by Jägermeister South Africa and the We Are Family Foundation. For further details about the festival, follow @othervillagepeople on Instagram and engage with the community using hashtags #queertopiaza #jagermeister #bewhoyouare.

As excitement builds for this year’s Queertopia.za festival, Ego Ella May’s participation elevates the event. It also underscores the growing recognition of queer artistry on international stages. This festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of love, creativity, and community in Johannesburg.