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 latest play, 'This Is The Life', takes a different turn, delving into the world of theatre itself and the unsung heroes who keep the show running.
A Playwright's Journey
Born to a miner's family in Upton, Godber's journey to becoming one of Yorkshire's most celebrated playwrights is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft. His work has always been characterized by a deep-rooted empathy for those who struggle, a perspective shaped by his own experiences and the influences of his upbringing.
"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
Godber's candid nature is a hallmark of his Yorkshire roots, and it's this honesty that shines through in his work. His latest play, set to debut at East Riding Theatre, continues this tradition, exploring the lives of two stage managers, often overlooked but integral to the theatre's success.
The Underdog's Perspective
'This Is The Life' is a play about dreams, resilience, and the value we place on the arts. In a society where theatre tickets are becoming increasingly unaffordable, Godber raises important questions about accessibility and the impact of commercialization on the arts.
"If you look at theatre pricing, tickets have gone through the roof. You can go and see a play in the West End for what we used to pay for a week's holiday in Spain. I've got a couple of quid, but I resent paying that kind of money." - John Godber
Godber's work is a reminder that the arts should be for everyone, not just the elite. His play serves as a critique of neoliberalism and the potential consequences of prioritizing profit over the preservation of cultural institutions.
A Legacy of Empathy
Godber's writing is deeply personal, often drawing from his own experiences and the influences of his upbringing. His father, a self-taught man with a wide range of knowledge, played a significant role in shaping Godber's perspective on life and the power of words.
"My dad was autodidact, which means self-taught, and was a very widely read member of the Labour party... His was the university of life." - John Godber
Despite his success, Godber remains grounded and excited about his work, a testament to his passion and dedication. His daughters, following in his footsteps, continue the Godber legacy in the theatre.
A Thoughtful Conclusion
John Godber's work is a powerful reminder that the arts have the potential to shine a light on the struggles and dreams of the everyday person. His plays, including 'This Is The Life', serve as a much-needed critique of societal inequalities and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit.
In a world that often glorifies the elite, Godber's plays offer a refreshing perspective, reminding us that the true drama lies in the lives of the underdogs.
