Actor T.C. Carson returns to the stage in Ruth P. Watson’s ‘Blackberry Daze’

Ruth Carter
Photo courtesy of Ruth P. Watson

Author Ruth P. Watson has always loved reading and writing. She penned Blackberry Days of Summer and An Elderberry Fall. A freelance writer and member of Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Atlanta-based storyteller chats with rolling out about her upcoming play, co-written by Tom Jones, that stars a well-known actor.

What is the name of your play?
Blackberry Daze


Who will be producing it? Which stars are performing in it?
It will be co-produced by MetroStage, and a few close friends. TC Carson (“Living Single”) will be a lead in the premiere along with Roz White.

What kind of writer are you?
I’m not sure I know how to answer that question. I am an avid reader and I have written it all.


How did you become a playwright?
I became a playwright by accident. I had written a film script and was searching for investors and legitimate producers, when an actress Margo Moorer and choreographer Dawn Axam about the same time approached Tom Jones, originally of Jomandi Productions, about me. He read my book and together we wrote the script. Tom is an award winning director and I am blessed to co-write the play’s script with him.

Do you consider yourself a slow or a fast writer?  
I am probably a slow writer. There are times when the characters are alive and I have to write fast to keep up with them. I know it sounds strange.

Blackberry Daze

Where is the ideal venue you’d like to see your play be produced?
I would love to see it on Broadway. We think we are Broadway bound already.

What was the first thing you ever wrote that you felt was an accomplishment, or that challenged you, or that terrified you, or that made you feel excited to share it?
If the answer for each is different, explain. I think the first thing I wrote and felt accomplished was an article in college that had the entire campus talking. I didn’t think much about it, however my English instructors told me I had a knack for creative writing and telling a good story was a gift.

Why do you think theater is important? 
It is up close and personal. You can see the actors deliver a story in 3D. Their emotions and your emotions can be shared at the same time. Theater is classic and it is difficult and only the best actors can make it believable. No retakes, it is the real degree of personification.

If you could change just one thing about the industry with the wave of a magic wand, what would it be?
Make theater accessible to all.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to do what you do?
Stay focused and don’t give up. Write the script and let others know about it. Eventually, it will take off.

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