SiR’s First SA Show: Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 Lineup & Tickets
SiR’s First SA Show: Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 Lineup & Tickets
Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 is shaping up to be one of Johannesburg’s most soulful and emotionally charged live music experiences of the year, with organisers officially revealing the first wave of artists set to perform at the highly anticipated event on 23 May 2026.
Blending modern R&B, jazz, soul, live instrumentation, and experimental storytelling, the event promises an intimate musical journey featuring some of South Africa’s most exciting rising voices and genre-defying performers.
SiR Confirmed as Headliner
Leading the lineup is acclaimed Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) artist SiR (Sir Darryl Farris), whose emotionally rich sound and poetic songwriting have made him one of the most captivating voices in alternative R&B and soul.
Known for hits like “John Redcorn,” “Hair Down” (feat. Kendrick Lamar), “D’Evils,” and “The Recipe,” SiR brings his signature blend of introspective lyrics and smooth vocals to Johannesburg for what promises to be an unforgettable headline performance.
The announcement has already generated excitement among music fans online, with many anticipating an intimate set filled with storytelling, raw emotion, and TDE-calibre production.
Thando Zide Brings Emotion and Introspection
Also joining the lineup is Thando Zide, an artist celebrated for deeply personal songwriting and emotionally layered performances.
Her music blends vulnerability, warmth, and introspection, creating songs that resonate across different audiences while remaining deeply authentic.
“Music that moves like memory, soft around the edges, deeply human, and impossible to rush.”
Her performance is expected to deliver one of the most emotionally immersive moments of the festival.
LIA Butler Continues Her Rise
Rising singer-songwriter LIA Butler has also been added to the Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 lineup.
Known for blending Neo-Zulu heritage influences with contemporary R&B, LIA Butler continues to establish herself as one of South Africa’s most promising emerging voices.
Her music is carried by rich vocals, intentional songwriting, and modern storytelling that bridges tradition and innovation.
SN Project Added as First Local Act
Once Upon A Time in Joburg also confirmed SN Project as one of the festival’s standout local additions.
Described as a “music architect” and pianist of rare calibre, SN Project is expected to bring an emotionally charged live performance blending jazz, soul, and cinematic instrumentation.
“Prepare to step into a soundscape that’s emotional, precise, and unmistakably soulful.”
Jazz Vibrato Sextet Joins the Experience
The festival has also introduced a jazz vibrato sextet described as performing “like a single living organism” — layered, fluid, and richly textured.
Their sound balances experimentation with musical legacy, adding another dimension to the immersive atmosphere Once Upon A Time in Joburg aims to create.
Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 Lineup So Far
- SiR (TDE artist – Headliner)
- Thando Zide (Emotionally layered vocals)
- LIA Butler (Neo-Zulu, R&B rising star)
- SN Project (Music architect, pianist of rare calibre)
- Jazz Vibrato Sextet (Live jazz ensemble)
Event Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 |
| Date | Saturday, 23 May 2026 |
| Venue | TBC, Johannesburg |
| Genre | R&B, Soul, Jazz, Live Instrumentation |
| Headliner | SiR (TDE) |
| Supporting Acts | Thando Zide, LIA Butler, SN Project, Jazz Vibrato Sextet |
| More Artists | To be announced |
Ticket Price Breakdown
| Ticket Category | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission | R750 | Standard entry to the event. |
| VIP | R1,500 | Includes premium access and amenities. |
| VIP Table (4 guests) | R7,000 | A reserved table for four with VIP service. |
Tickets & Payment Options
Tickets for Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 are officially available now through the event’s official platforms.
Organisers have confirmed flexible payment options through Payflex, allowing fans to split their ticket purchase into 4 interest-free instalments. This makes it easier to secure your spot ahead of the event.
Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early as demand continues to grow following the first wave of artist announcements.
Quicket link: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/367654-once-upon-a-time-in-joburg/#/
Why Once Upon A Time in Joburg Stands Out
Unlike traditional festivals focused purely on mainstream hits, Once Upon A Time in Joburg is positioning itself as a curated cultural experience rooted in storytelling, live instrumentation, emotional connection, and artistic authenticity.
“Music that moves like memory, soft around the edges, deeply human, and impossible to rush.”
The event is already attracting attention for its carefully selected lineup, cinematic branding, and focus on intimate live performance experiences.
About SiR
SiR (born Sir Darryl Farris) is an American R&B singer-songwriter signed to Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) – the legendary label home to Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Schoolboy Q, and Jay Rock.
His albums include November (2018), Chasing Summer (2019), and HEAVY (2024). This performance marks his first-ever appearance in South Africa – making it a historic debut for local R&B fans.
More Artists to Be Announced
This is only the first wave of announcements. Organisers have confirmed that additional artists will be added to the lineup in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates.
Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026 – Saturday, 23 May in Johannesburg. Featuring SiR, Thando Zide, LIA Butler, SN Project & Jazz Vibrato Sextet. Tickets with Payflex available now. More artists to be announced.
FAQ – Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026
1. What is Once Upon A Time in Joburg?
Once Upon A Time in Joburg is a curated R&B event series for true lovers of the genre, brought to you by Doctor Bird Productions. It’s the event platform making it possible to see the artists you never thought you’d get to experience live.
2. When is Once Upon A Time in Joburg 2026?
The event takes place on Saturday, 23 May 2026 from 12:00 to 22:00.
3. Where is the event being held?
Based on last year’s event, the venue is Rosefield Equestrian (Polo) Club in Knoppieslaagte, Centurion (near Johannesburg).
Address: Knoppieslaagte, Centurion, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 0157, South Africa
4. Who is headlining?
SiR (Sir Darryl Farris) – the acclaimed R&B singer-songwriter signed to Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) – is the headliner. This marks his first-ever performance in South Africa.
5. What is the full lineup so far?
| Artist | Notes |
|---|---|
| SiR (TDE) | Headliner – First SA performance |
| Thando Zide | Emotionally layered R&B |
| LIA Butler | Neo-Zulu, R&B rising star |
| SN Project | Music architect, pianist |
| Jazz Vibrato Sextet | Live jazz ensemble |
More artists to be announced in the coming weeks.
6. Is there an age restriction?
Yes. No under 18s.
A valid government-issued ID (ID, passport, or driver’s licence) is required for entry – no copies or photos will be accepted.
7. How much are tickets?
Based on last year’s pricing (2025), ticket categories were:
| Ticket Category | Price (2025) |
|---|---|
| General Admission | R750 |
| VIP | R1,500 |
| VIP Table (4 guests) | R7,000 |
Note: 2026 prices may be confirmed closer to the sale date.
8. Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets were sold on Quicket last year. The 2026 ticket link will be announced soon. Check the official event page or Doctor Bird Productions social media.
9. Are tickets refundable?
No. All ticket sales are final and non-refundable under normal circumstances.
However:
- Tickets can be safely transferred to another individual via Quicket’s official ticket transfer system.
- If the event is postponed, your ticket remains valid for the new date.
- If the event is cancelled by Doctor Bird Productions, you will be offered a refund or ticket rollover.
10. Can I buy tickets at the door?
No. Tickets are sold exclusively online in advance. Door sales are unlikely as the event is expected to sell out.
11. What items are prohibited?
| Prohibited Items |
|---|
| Weapons |
| Illegal substances |
| Glass bottles |
| Fireworks |
| Drones |
| Animals |
| Hookahs / shishas |
| Braais or skottels |
| Plastic straws or cups |
| Cooler boxes |
| Outside food, drinks, or liquids |
12. Is the event cashless?
Yes. This is a cashless event – all major debit, credit, and cheque cards are accepted.
13. Is re-entry allowed?
Yes, but subject to full security screening and valid ticket and wristband checks.
14. What happens if there is bad weather?
This is an all-weather event. Please dress appropriately and be prepared for changing conditions.
In the event of severe weather that poses a safety risk, Doctor Bird Productions reserves the right to pause, postpone, or cancel portions of the event. Updates will be communicated via official channels.
15. Is the event accessible?
Yes. Designated accessible entry points, viewing areas, and restroom facilities will be available.
For specific accessibility needs, contact: info@drbirdproductions.com in advance.
16. Can I take photos or video?
No professional photography or video equipment is permitted unless pre-approved via media accreditation.
17. Who is producing the event?
The event is produced by Doctor Bird Productions – the team behind previous Once Upon a Time in Joburg editions featuring DVSN, GoldLink, Xavier Omar, Sasha Keable, and SiR.
18. Will there be more artists announced?
Yes. Organisers have confirmed that more artists will be announced in the coming weeks.
19. How can I stay updated?
Follow these official channels:
| Source | Platform | Handle |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor Bird Productions | @drbirdproductions | |
| Once Upon A Time in Joburg | Social media | Search official pages |
| SiR | @sir | |
| Quicket | Website | quicket.co.za |
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