National Centre for Writing newsletter

 With details of what's on March - May:

Graphic novels, monstrous bodies, sewing legends, Easter trails & more!     Hot off the press! Download our new season brochure Your guide to what’s on at the National Centre for Writing   It’s time to crack the spine on that 2025 diary and fill your March-to-May calendar with a vibrant mix of warm company, reading recommendations, and creative inspiration!   Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or a seeker of family-friendly thrills, and whether you’re right on Dragon Hall’s doorstep or tuning in from across the globe, we’ve got an exciting lineup to help you escape, imagine, connect, and create.   Take a sneak peek of some of our spring highlights below. We can’t wait to see you!     Peggy Hughes CEO, National Centre for Writing     EVENTS Inspiring events that inspire, connect, and celebrate     The First Frame: Crafting a Graphic Novel Thu 3 April, 6.30pm, National Centre for Writing, pay what you wish Join us as we delve into the creative journey behind crafting and publishing within this unique medium, guided by an expert panel of publishers and graphic novelists. There will even be an opportunity to share your ‘work in progress’ with one of the panellists, for advice and feedback!   In collaboration with the First Graphic Novel Award     Overnight: Dan Richards with Sarah Perry Thu 24 April, 6.30pm, National Centre for Writing, pay what you wish Sunday Times bestselling author Dan Richards explores the mysteries of night-time, from insomnia and night terrors to parenthood, emergency services, and the magic of dawn on the summer solstice. He will be interviewed by Sarah Perry, author of The Essex Serpent and Enlightenment.     Online events: The Global Page Introducing our unique series of online global conversations, featuring internationally acclaimed and emerging writers and translators.   The Global Page celebrates the art of writing in all its forms, connecting brilliant minds across styles, languages, and cultures. From YA Fiction to the taste of translation, and the monstrous body to queer desires, our panellists explore and challenge the ideas and approaches shaping the forefront of contemporary literature.     City of Literature weekend at Norfolk & Norwich Festival Fri 23–Sun 25 May Join Val McDermid, Patrick Grant, Sarah Moss, Hattie Crisell and many others for a weekend of events, creative workshops and open spaces that explore the theme of change, and important questions of communication and innovation.   A Norfolk & Norwich Festival and National Centre for Writing presentation, programmed by the National Centre for Writing     Explore more events   YOUNG PEOPLE & FAMILIES Activities and events to nurture a lifelong passion for writing, books, and ideas   Family Activity Days Throughout March–May, National Centre for Writing, free & drop in Step into Dragon Hall and discover 600 years of fascinating stories! Uncover the building’s rich past and its many uses over time. Relax in the book nook, borrow an activity bag, try colouring, or join creative activities led by artists. Drop in any time, no booking required.   Our next Family Activity Day is Sun 23 February.   Supported by the Norwich Freemen’s Charity     Easter activities — including a dragon egg trail! Sun 13–Sun 20 April, National Centre for Writing This Easter, join us for a fun-filled series of events and creative activities! Drop-in on one of our open days to explore the site and take part in a Dragon Egg Easter Trail. We also welcome poet and performer Abbie Neale and TV presenter and author Jess French to lead creative holiday activities to ignite your imagination and get you writing.     Explore more activities for young people & families     Courses, workshops, mentoring & resources   Workshop: Immersing Readers Through Sensory Writing with Sussie Anie Sat 19 April, 1.30–4pm, National Centre for Writing, £45 (£35 conc) Discover how to create vivid, immersive worlds that captivate the imagination in this hands-on workshop led by Sussie Anie, author of To Fill a Yellow House. Dive into the five senses and learn techniques to infuse your writing with rich, evocative details.     Industry Insights for Novelists Sat 20 April, 10am–4pm, online, £22 (£18 conc) Join us for a dynamic day of inspiration and networking tailored for aspiring and early-career novelists, facilitated by writer and educator KR Moorhead.   Gain valuable insights into agents, publishing, and the writing life through engaging sessions led by acclaimed authors and industry professionals.     Online tutored courses starting April & May — on sale now! Join a global writing community and receive personalised feedback on your work with a creative writing course designed in partnership with the University of East Anglia.   Whether you're looking to master the foundations of writing romantic fiction, need guidance on how to edit your novel, or have a real-life story to tell, these courses offer a structured period of learning and growth — with the individual attention you deserve.   Book your space by 10am GMT on Tuesday 18 March to take advantage of our early bird discount!     Explore more from NCW Academy     Dragon Hall reopens its doors this spring!   Step into our home, one of Norwich’s most significant medieval buildings, and discover the fascinating stories of the people who have lived and worked here for hundreds of years.   Dragon Hall will welcome visitors again from Sunday 6 April and we will be open from 10am–3pm, Sunday to Tuesday, each week. Pick up a trail map, explore the Great Hall, join us for arts and crafts, or simply drop in during your lunch break to enjoy our garden as the days grow longer.     Stories and creative writing can empower people and communities Donate today to help children, young people and community groups develop skills, wellbeing, and better futures through writing. 100% of your donation will support our learning activities, reaching over 10,000 people each year. Donate now     The National Centre for Writing is supported by:   Copyright © 2025 National Centre for Writing, All rights reserved. Registered charity number: 1110725. Our mailing address is: National Centre for Writing, Dragon Hall, 115 - 123 King Street, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 1QE