Jude Simpson – Poet. Wordsmith. Writer. Performer.

Hello! I’m Jude Simpson.

I’m a poet, wordsmith and spoken word artist, writing/performing for both adults and children.

Lucky me!!

I combine poetry, wordplay and song on stage, to create a vibe which audiences describe as warm, witty and uplifting.

From celebrations of cuppa soup to songs about parenting teenagers or poems about my longing to be more like a reptile, I tend to take a quirky view of life, which appeals to audiences of all sorts and ages. I love to make people laugh, and whilst doing so, say something true and important. I’m at my happiest when playing with words.

“She has words on a string like so many yoyos and her lines sparkle with wit and panache.” – The Scotsman

I’ve taken three full shows to the Edinburgh Festival, and have performed at Glastonbury, Latitude, Greenbelt, Big Church, and many other literature festivals, cabaret and comedy clubs.  I have won three national poetry slams (Swindon, Cheltenham, Edinburgh), and my work has been featured on Radio 2, 4 and 5. I also took part in Baby Cow’s “Slam Poets” on BBC3 TV, back in 2004. 

From May 2025 to May 2026, I was touring my debut family show, “A Noise Annoys” – it won a nomination for Best Kids Show at the Leicester Comedy Festival. With the support of Arts Council England, I’m now developing two new shows – “Anticipating Hindsight” for adults and “Before and Dafter” for children/families. You can find out more about my shows on this page here.

“Jude Simpson is funny, sharp, emotional in her work and a terrific performer, using her face and body with huge effect. She needs to be seen and heard wherever possible” – Michael Rosen

In the meantime, you can find me at lots of gigs and events, especially around East Anglia, where I live. To see where and when, check the What’s On page here.

“Brilliant energy and lyrical magic!” – Bedford Today

You’ll mostly find me on stage performing my own work, but I also love introducing audiences to other fabulous writers and performers, by compering, hosting and interviewing – whether for literary festivals, family fundays and charity events. Plus, I help people create memoirs and autobiographies, and also offer workshops and seminars. Check out the “About me” page to find out more about all these.

Many of my words are also written down, and you can buy your very own copies of my books at my online shop. Lucky you!

If you want to get in touch to book me, discuss an idea, or for any other lovely reason, you can do so at my contact page here.

The development of my shows “Anticipating Hindsight” and “Before and Dafter” is supported by the Arts Council England.

I’m proud to be #FantasticforFamilies thanks to the Family Arts Standards https://www.familyarts.co.uk/family-arts-standards/ 

I am a member of the Society of Authors.