(Hallowtide) “Absorbing. Hallowtide stands out for its emotional depth, powerful storytelling. Filled with unpredictable twists and remains deeply engaging throughout. There’s an undercurrent of dark, ancient magic at play ... truly impressed.” CB July 2025. (Darkness Visible) “Very impressed with the suspense and intrigue it commands”, “Powerful writing”, “What a piece of writing ... simply superb”, “Tightly woven, compelling, gripping, chilling, unexpected.”
"Well, you did ask." Advice to new writers, or those who would like to be ...
If you follow THIS LINK it will take you to a Flipbook.
Why a Flipbook? Because I find it easier to read and dip in/out of than a slab of boring text.
What it contains is simply the sum - in no order - of my experience in both writing for theatre and then, trying to get that work on stage. This has been a labour of love-ish! It is aimed at those who are new to writing for theatre or have a passion to try. I am now up to sixty-five bits of advice/observation within the book. I'm sure there are omissions. I'm sure there are things I've done that some would not dream of doing or need to. And there will definitely be things which may cause some to scream at the screen. But if what it contains helps somebody, then it has been worth the effort. You will see that it lurches between page and performance. That is intentional because, the way I work, they are inseparable.
Caveats, caveats, caveats ...
First off, I write and produce my own work. That flavours everything which is in there. I am regularly asked about how I write and then, go about staging my plays. I'm not an expert or an authority on either. As a last note, although I am tiny fish in a very big sea, I am more than willing to assist if you think I might be able to. My time costs nothing and I am happy to share it around. I guess you get to an age where you realise that not all knowledge has a monetary price and should be gifted on. And if you can get through what it contains, number 61 is a biggie for me. Good luck in all that you do.
Remember,
- you are more capable than you probably think
- your ideas are as valid as anyone else's
- having written your first sentence, you will have achieved far more than most
- everyone who reads or sees your work will have an opinion. Live with it. And lastly,
- love the process, love the experience, love the product and love yourself for your achievements.
PS: if you wish to use any of this or would like a copy of it, just get in touch. The provision of a credit is usually enough depending on the specific usage. Apart from the small matter of copyright, it’s just nice to be asked first ... (last updated 07/10/2025).
Latest News
'Opposites in Common' feedback from the premiere (2024)
Some of the audience feedback from the opening night ...
“Go and see this play, I've just been to the first night. It's a super script, two fabulous actors; it’s Martin's best work by far and the best play I've seen on a stage for a long time.” ... “Just home from seeing this ... OMG! 11/10! Not a dry eye in the house.” ... “Brilliant! Well done to all involved, very well written and amazing performances. I laughed a lot and cried! I was hooked all the way through! You should be very proud!” ... “ … credit where credits due. I had no idea the interval was coming. I didn’t want it to stop and the ending was so emotional” ... “The best play I have seen in a long time. Excellent."
'Ancient and Modern' & 'Last bus to Whitby - Feedback from the audience (2023)
“I saw these two monologue plays by Martin Paul Roche. Laugh out loud funny and also very thought provoking. Two excellent performances. Go and see it if you can. New plays on tour. Brilliant.” AND “Absolutely brilliant. Both performances did justice to your writing! Great plays, very poignant in parts but ‘laugh out loud’ comedic in others.”
'Where is the life?' Feedback from the audience (2023)
"We were there last night. It was absolutely brilliant. Sensitive, funny and absolutely heartbreaking. Moved us all to tears. Brilliant acting, brave choice of play. Loved it. Definitely not to be missed" ... "Congratulations guys. This play was brilliant. Such a rollercoaster of emotions. The cast and director did a great job" ... "Watched it last night and really enjoyed it" ... "Book now to avoid disappointment" ... "Utterly brilliant. Well done. Loved it"
Living with Lois - review of premiere (2023)
“With ‘Living With Lois’ we saw a palpably creative and very positive dramatic impact and were fulfilled in both delivery and execution. There was complete understanding and control of theatrical communication from the lead actors and director alike, supported by capable technicians. This production was exhilarating theatre of almost the highest possible standard. The appreciative audience rightly paid full attention and enjoyed every minute. Theatre is a two-way street – what is sent from the stage gets a direct response from the audience. This is an exchange that doesn’t happen in the cinema or reading a book. ‘Living With Lois’ was a rare gem, shining and bright, for which I can only give thanks.” Andrew P Wild (GMDF Adjudicator)