A natter with: Martha Godber

Join us for a natter with northern creatives and the people behind the places that drive the creative community.

Next up for a natter is Martha Godber a powerhouse actor, writer and director, and founder of the Godber Theatre Foundation 🎭 whether she’s deep in a writing session, touring the country, or planning the production of her upcoming short film, Martha’s work is deep rooted in heart, grit and truth. She writes what she knows, and she’s an actor with vast experience and a story worth knowing.

Hi Martha,

In a few sentences, tell us what you do:

I am an actor, writer and director from Hull working in the Theatre, TV and Film industry! I also am the founder and run The Godber Theatre  Foundation an initiative which helps young people from Hull get into the industry. 

You're currently on tour! Tell us about your play:

I'm currently touring the UK in 'Do I Love You?' It's a play about three young people from Hull who work in a chicken shop but find their purpose through Northern soul music, dancing and culture. 

What does a day in the life look like for an actor on tour?

I normally try and wake up early and exercise, either run or go to the gym. Explore the city we're in, then try and get on with my own writing before heading to the theatre! If it's a new venue we get there for around 4pm for rehearsals and then after the show go for a drink with the cast and company to decompress, it takes me a bit of time to come down from the adrenaline of the show!

Nice! Do you have anything else coming up that we should know about? 

I'm currently in pre-production for my own short film, which is being shot in Hull in June! Set in the Hull riots last year, it explores the moral fallout of a city, as a young couple confronts  responsibility, and the power of doing the right thing amidst chaos and social neglect.

How does where you're from inspire your work?

As a writer I am drawn to writing about what I know and where I'm from; my own personal experiences play a huge part in that. Writing is also a massive release for me, I like to tell stories that I think 'normal' people would relate too, without shying away from the truth. 

When you're not busy acting or writing, where can we find you?

I low-key love doing Sudokus lol, they help me switch off my chaotic brain. Apart from that I love socialising with my friends and family. I've got to shout out Nibble, their food is unreal and also 92 degrees coffee in Leeds and Liverpool! Also shout out to Hygge on Humber street, when I lived in Hull I was there all the time! Gemini in Beverly has the best vegan hot choc!

What piece of advice would you give to a fellow northerner looking to get into acting or writing?

Create from the heart and be bold! Go out there and do it and fuck what anyone else thinks - it will pay off!

Who would you nominate for us to have a natter with?

My very close friend Josh Cartmell who is a set and costume designer from Hull. His brand is Melsh studio!

Cheers, Martha!

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