In a world where playwrights often find themselves drawn to the glitz and glamour of the elite, John Godber, Yorkshire's prolific playwright, stands out as a beacon for the underdogs. As he celebrates his 70th birthday, Godber's passion for storytelling remains unwavering, and his latest play, 'This Is The Life', is a testament to his unwavering commitment to giving voice to the marginalized.
A Playwright's Journey
Born and raised in Upton, Godber's roots are firmly planted in the working-class soil of Yorkshire. Despite his success and recognition, he hasn't forgotten his humble beginnings. In fact, it's these beginnings that continue to inspire his writing. A question posed by a friend's friend, a highly qualified Yorkshire lass, sparked a realization: Godber's writing has, and perhaps always will, revolve around the underdogs.
"I suppose you go back to sport and to Up 'n' Under. I wrote about the underdog in rugby league. I guess everything I've written is about people who either have a lack of opportunities or people struggling, that's where I see the drama is." - John Godber
The Power of Underdogs
Godber's plays, including the beloved 'Bouncers' and 'Happy Families', often feature characters who are overlooked, struggling, or facing unequal circumstances. His writing shines a light on the resilience and humanity of these individuals, offering a unique perspective on the world. It's this focus on the underdog that has made Godber's work so relatable and beloved by audiences.
A New Direction
'This Is The Life' marks a departure for Godber, as he explores the world of theatre itself. The play is told from the perspective of two stage managers, individuals who often go unnoticed but play a crucial role in bringing performances to life. By focusing on these unsung heroes, Godber continues his tradition of celebrating the overlooked.
"This Is The Life is about a little local theatre in danger of closing down. It comes from two starting points - the arts are under threat, and how highly do we value them?" - John Godber
The Threat to the Arts
Godber's latest work also delves into the broader issues facing the arts industry. With theatre ticket prices soaring, he questions the accessibility of these cultural experiences. The play's narrative touches on the commercialization and neoliberalism that threaten to undermine the very essence of art.
"That is elitist. I've always been about making theatre that anybody can go and see... The theatre is closing because the town council have decided to sell the land to make way for some luxury flats. In the wider sense, it's a discussion about neoliberalism, about commercialisation." - John Godber
A Legacy of Inspiration
Godber's influence extends beyond his plays. His daughters, Elizabeth and Martha, have followed in his footsteps, inspired by his dedication and passion. Even after 70-plus plays, Godber's enthusiasm remains infectious, a testament to the power of storytelling.
"I get up very early to work, then I go into the house. This morning I said to Jane 'I've had a good morning'. She said 'John, you're an internationally renowned writer, why shouldn't you have a good morning'." - John Godber
As Godber continues to write, his legacy as a champion of the underdogs grows stronger. His plays offer a unique window into the lives of those often overlooked, reminding us of the importance of dreaming and the power of art to inspire and unite.
