Martyn Pettifer co-founded Nottingham University’s first rock group ‘The Hustlers’ whilst studying there as an undergraduate. He also trod the boards occasionally as a member of the University’s Entertainment Society (Ensoc).

Later he wrote the music and lyrics and co-wrote the book for a production of the pantomime ‘Cinderella’ which was subsequently entered into a Play of the Year competition in Zimbabwe (it’s a long story!), attracting the following criticism from members of the National Theatre Organisation’s judging panel :-

"The music ..... is very good indeed - full of bright, catchy songs with excellent words, well suited to characters and story". " ... the lyrics of the songs were witty". "...script has good shape and style"......

Other writing and performance credits include the music, lyrics and script plus directing the late night revue ‘Bringing Up the Rear’ performed at the Arundel Festival.

He was motivated to write ‘Jack The Lad’, although inspired is perhaps a kinder word to use, by a number of exasperating experiences within the British legal system, the City of London and his work in the construction industry.