The Samrah

Samrah is a hybrid music, poetry and dance experience that traditionally takes place during special occasions in an Arabic family, namely weddings and Mawalid or the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

Traditionally, the experience has an important social and religious significance but currently in Singapore, there are many open Samrah events held for enjoyment and to spread interest and awareness of Southern Arabic culture.

The live music ensemble consists of a solo singer, as well as instrumentalists who play a variety of string and percussion instruments. Various members of the family (mostly males) would soon get up and dance to the music in a lively fashion. Females may have their own separate room or area to dance in. Onlookers who do not wish to participate in the dance would clap and sing along to encourage the ones dancing.

The original Samrah is not a performance that is staged or choreographed but a true experience of its participants, a time to discover peace, love and tranquility through the music and dance.

About Samrah Al -Wehdah Al-Arabiah Bi Singhafura

The Samrah Alwehdah Al-Arabia music group consists of seven musicians who are all members of the Singapore Arab community. The group was officially formed in June 2004 when it performed during the Arab Heritage Week in the Arab Street district. Presently the group is made up of ten members of which five have been with the group from the very beginning.