John is currently poet-in-residence at Norwich Market, where he will be writing poems to commemorate the market’s 900th birthday!
The poems he writes will be displayed around the market in July and some will be available here.
So much of John’s work is about Norwich – his adopted home town – and his deep love for it, this feels like the perfect role for him.
The residency is in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and local community theatre group, The Common Lot.
CEO of the National Centre for Writing Peggy Hughes said: ‘John’s experience is a great match for the role, and we’re excited to read the work produced.’
The residency forms part of On the Huh! 900 Years of Norwich Market, an upcoming community performance and exhibition celebrating the rich history of the UK’s largest permanent outdoor market. Known for their unique, high-energy ‘docu-panto’ style, The Common Lot will stage six free outdoor evening performances from 21–26 July 2026.
Simon Floyd, Common Lot Creative Director, said:
‘We are all delighted to be working alongside John, a fellow Norwich patriot and champion. We know his work will reflect appreciation and affection for the market. Perfect for the whole On the Huh!‘
John Osborne 