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Welcome to Surtal Arts — South Asian Arts Derby

Championing South Asian arts and culture in Derby since 1994.

WELCOME TO SURTAL ARTS

We’re a contemporary arts organisation based in Derby, UK, championing South Asian arts and culture and creating wonderful cross-cultural experiences that enrich people’s lives. As a leading South Asian arts organisation in the East Midlands, our mission is to bring communities together through inspiring events, creative collaborations, and performances rooted in tradition and innovation.

  EVenTs 

Check out where to catch us next — from vibrant cultural showcases to dynamic dance and music performances that highlight the diversity of Indian dance and music and South Asian artistic traditions.

 learning 

We offer learning opportunities at all levels — from inclusive community classes to professional artist development programmes — with a focus on Indian dance and music, storytelling, workshops, and creative arts experiences for all ages.

 festivals 

Creating large spectacles is our specialty! Discover upcoming festivals like Derby Season of Light, featuring lantern parades, artistic installations, dance performances, music concerts, and celebrations of South Asian arts in Derby and beyond.

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 projects 

Explore our latest arts and cultural projects that advance creative expression, community engagement, and opportunities for emerging artists rooted in Indian dance and music and broader Asian arts practices.  

EVENT GALLERY

News

Community Consultation:Your Voice Matters

 

What do you want to see in Derby in terms of South Asian Arts & Culture?

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Surtal Arts has grown organically and have always put the needs of the community and it's audience first.  Currently we are undertaking a community consultation to help us understand the needs and interest of our communities in Derby so that we can plan future events accordingly. Please complete the survey by clicking on the link below. It will only take 10 min of your time.

We truly value your opinion and appreciate your time and support,

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https://forms.gle/MPLMnhLvoaTAvtjn6

UPCOMING CLASSES

Surtal Arts — South Asian Arts Derby & Creative Community Engagement

Founded in 1994, Surtal Arts is a Derby-based combined arts organisation and registered charity, specialising in South Asian arts and cross-cultural productions. As a leading Asian arts organisation in the East Midlands, we champion the power of creativity to unite communities, celebrate cultural heritage, and improve wellbeing.

 

We use the richness of Indian dance and music, storytelling, and visual arts to deliver inclusive creative experiences. Our mission is to promote high-quality arts that foster social cohesion, boost confidence, and support mental and physical health through education, performance, and participation.

 

As a non-venue-based, eco-friendly organisation, we focus on people, partnerships, and place-making — bringing cultural activity to where it's needed most.

Workshops, Classes & Events | Supporting Future Creatives in Derby

At the heart of our work is a strong commitment to children, young people, and emerging artists from diverse backgrounds — especially British Asians. Over 70% of our projects support youth and community development, giving participants a creative voice and place within the wider arts world.

We also work with older people and women, using arts for health and wellbeing. Our year-round offer includes:

  • On-demand arts workshops in schools, colleges, health settings and care homes

  • Regular Indian dance and music classes, including Bollywood, bhangra, and choir sessions

  • Commissioned arts projects for public, private and cultural partners

  • Large-scale cultural events such as the Derby Season of Light and Derby Lantern Parade, delivered in partnership with regional arts organisations


From performance to participation, Surtal Arts continues to inspire and connect communities through South Asian arts in Derby and beyond.

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