Exploring the Future of Islamic Art and Culture
Salaam Festival brings local, national and international artists of diverse backgrounds and art forms to produce innovative work in Manchester and beyond.
Welcome to Salaam Festival
A pioneering festival exploring the future of Islamic art and culture. We bring together local, national and international artists from diverse backgrounds to create original work in Manchester and beyond.
With our deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary Muslim artforms, we offer a unique platform that celebrates the rich tapestry of Islamic heritage while embracing bold new expressions-beyond colour, creed or interpretation.
Despite the turbulent times across the globe we hope to share words and performances that respectfully grieve, heal and raise our hopes through inspiring artists and the power of community.
Full programme announcement on 31 Aug 2025.
Programme
Remembrance
Join us for a heartfelt evening, where we will gather for a series of beautiful recitals of scripture, songs of praise and prayer.
Experience the spiritual and human connection as we welcome Hamza Bouzhar and Büşra Kayıkçı and others to inspire us with their enchanting voices and melodies to grieve, weave and heal.
More details to follow.
Date: Sat 01 Nov (Running time 120 mins)
Doors open 6:30PM
Venue: Contact Theatre. Oxford Road, Manchester M15 6JA
Büşra Kayıkçı
We are delighted to announce the powerful and talented Büşra Kayıkçı will headline the festival this year.
Playing for the first time in Manchester this outstanding interdisciplinary artist seeks to forge a unique voice at the intersection of music, space, and visuals. Since her debut recording, 'Eskizler' (2019), she has consistently sought to expand her sonic palette, further developing her sound in the album 'Places' (2024) and most recently in the EP project 'Weaving' (2025).
Born and raised in Istanbul, the composer and pianist Büşra Kayıkçı has an artistic foundation deeply rooted in a diverse range of disciplines. While devoted to piano since the age of nine, she also pursued ballet and attended art school on the weekends, fostering a multifaceted creative sensibility. Her academic background in interior architecture and environmental design at university further informs her unique approach to music, where structure and fluidity intertwine.
Date: Sat 01 Nov (Running time 60 mins) Doors open 6:30PM
Venue: Contact Theatre. Oxford Road, Manchester M15 6JA
Flamenco Qawwali
This unique evening begins with rhythms, chords and dance that whisper desires of hope from those who have sought freedom. This performance connects us with the traces left by Al-Andalus, a melting pot of cultures where the cry of "ole" resonated as a divne chant and whisper of prayer.
Exceptional voices and devotional echoes recall the illustrious predecessor Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, who made Qawwali known to the world. A painful journey of migration takes form, the music weaves ancient poetry and intense rhythm with complex melodies to invoke an atmosphere of deeply moving calls to the heavens.
Date: Sun 02 Nov (Running time 120 mins)
Doors open 6:30PM
Venue: Contact Theatre. Oxford Road, Manchester M15 6JA
Creating Cultural Impact
Salaam Festival weaves together artistic excellence, community engagement, and educational outreach to create meaningful cultural experiences. Through our three key initiatives, we're fostering understanding, celebrating diversity, and building a more connected society.
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