Welcome to SAMA - a colourful and vibrant week-long festival celebrating the sights, sounds, spirit and spice of South Asian music, arts and culture.

SAMA is back on 6- 12 October 2008 bigger and better!

Organised by GemArts, Kalapremi and Pakistan Cultural Society the week long festival will take place between the 6^th and 12^th October 2008 in iconic locations and venues across Newcastle and Gateshead, and will include an exciting and dynamic programme of events and festivities including stunning performances by some of the finest musicians, DJs, artists, and dancers from across the UK and South Asia.

SAMA will also include amazing workshops, literature festival, exhibitions, a film and food festival, arts and crafts from the Indian Subcontinent and spectacular outdoor events working with artists, producers and organizations from across the UK and South Asia.

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We would like to gratefully acknowledge NewcastleGateshead Initiative for their support and belief in the festival and also Arts Council England, North East, Newcastle City Council, Gateshead Council, TyneWear Partnership and Northern Rock Foundation for their financial support.

Photo credits: Tony Griffiths, Joanna Skonieczka, Peter Atkinson.