[2] Jazzart was founded in 1973 by Sonje Mayo as a modern and jazz dance studio open to students of all races.
[3] Under the leadership of Sue Parker from 1978 to 1982, the studio evolved into a contemporary jazz school and part-time company, before it was handed over to Val Steyn.
In 1986, Alfred Hinkel bought the company, changing artistic directorship to Dawn Langdown, John Linden and Jay Pather.
Under this new leadership, the company adopted a philosophy that focused on the socio-political and economic context of their students and audiences.
Jazzart still strives to bring together all races in South Africa, often performing in disadvantaged communities across the nation.