SAMA (South Asian Music and Arts Festival) is a collaborative arts initiative from Kalapremi, GemArts and Pakistan Cultural Society along with NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI), Northeast England, and supported by Newcastle Council, Gateshead Council, Tyne and Wear Partnership, Arts Council England, Northeast and Northern Rock Foundation. With SAMA we hope to create new networks for all partners involved directly or indirectly in the festival. The festival has raised the profile of the organizations, nationally and internationally. Showcasing world-class performers and renowned artists along with active involvement with the community, the festival is always a grand success. The aim of the festival is excellence. Showcasing talented artists and encouraging South-Asian arts to complement the mainstream arts sector in Britain is another focus. The weeklong festival showcases stunning performances from world-class artists & musicians culminating in a fantastic outdoor finale, which includes vibrant outdoor performances, colourful vendors and delicious Indian food. Visit www.samafestival.org for more information on the festival. |
World Culture Festival was a collaborative 2 day festival along with Durham County Council. The festival feature never-seen before artforms particularly in the north east. Dances like Garba- A traditional folk art from north western part of India, Qawalli - It's a vibrant musical tradition that stretches back more than 700 years, Yakshagana – traditional dance from South India, Bharathanatyam, Kuchipudi – Classical Indian dances and SAMYO – South Asian Youth Music Orchestra. |