The Life and Legacy of Playwright John Godber | The Pacecast

"People think success happens overnight, but mine was built on graft, grief, and a bit of luck."

In this episode of The Pacecast, legendary playwright John Godber shares the extraordinary story behind one of Britain’s most performed writers. From failing the 11+ to unexpected tragedy, breakthroughs in drama, and winning an Olivier Award, John’s life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and reinvention.

He opens up about how sport kept him grounded, how Hull transformed his future, why teaching shaped his voice, and the personal losses that fuelled some of his most powerful work.

00:02 - Introductions
01:18 - The Olivier Award & BAFTA stories
01:45 - Early life
03:38 - Discovering drama, art & music at school
05:57 - The shocking attack and starting weightlifting
10:02 - College years: Bretton Hall, Leeds University & beginning to write
11:13 - National Student Drama Festival
12:42 - Anthony Minghella: “You should be a writer.”
13:38 - TV work: Grange Hill and Brookside.
16:18 - Hiding in a caravan - writing Up ’n’ Under
20:20 - Edinburgh Festival drama
20:53 - First audience reaction - realising the play is funny
22:43 - Winning the Olivier Award - the Drury Lane story & backstage mix-up
30:11 - Recent work & Northern Soul play born out of caring for his father
35:09 - Hull Truck: the build, running the theatre, leaving and starting his company
39:20 - Family company, touring model and the foundation to help students
49:20 - Bouncers - most successful play
51:40 - Regrets & opportunities turned down
1:11:11 - Final reflections: advice, taking feedback and what’s next

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