"Well, you did ask."

I am regularly asked about how I write and then, go about staging my plays, hence the reason for this page and the resource it contains. I'm not an expert or an authority on writing or staging theatre. I figured my approach by trial, error and then a bit more error. First off, I write and produce my own work. That flavours everything. Next, I have no delusions. I am tiny fish in a very big sea. But 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 I've reached an age where knowledge has no monetary price and should be gifted on. 

Some thoughts and guidance for new writers but more importantly, those who would like to be.

I've had so many chats over the years covering the same ground that I thought it just easier to get it all down and put it out there.

To find it, follow THIS LINK and it will take you to a Flipbook. It's free to read. No stupid adverts or links to anything to buy, pop-up or to annoy.

Why a Flipbook? Because I find it easier to read and dip in/out of than a slab of boring text on a web page.

What does it contain? The sum - in no order - of my experience in both writing for theatre and then, trying to get that work on stage. It 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 one person, 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. PS: And if you can get through what the book contains, number 61 is a biggie for me.

Good luck in all that you do.

Writing Quote

And remember,

You are more capable than you think you are.
Your ideas are just 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.
Love the process, love the experience, love the product and above all, love yourself for your achievements.
Every work, every page, every word, every thought. Be proud of them all. They are evidence of original thought and creativity.  And they are all yours. 

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 10/10/2025).

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'Gymnopédies' - preview (2025 production)

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'Darkness Visible' & 'Hallowtide' audience feedback (2025)

“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.”

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'Opposites in Common' feedback from the premiere (2024)

“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."

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'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.”

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'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"

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