The Woodward News

Local News

January 13, 2010

Retired professor's portrayal offers timeless wisdom of Will Rogers

Is this the worst economy since the Great Depression? What would Will Rogers say?

In the 1930s, the American humorist and entertainer once drawlingly remarked, “We’re the first nation in the history of the world to go to the poor house in an automobile.”

Today, Rogers’ timeless words remain relevant.

Oklahoma’s favorite son died over 70 years ago, but his words live on thanks to enthusiasts like Doug Watson, who portrays Rogers in a historical characterization program dubbed “Conversations with Will Rogers.”

Watson is slated to perform as Rogers locally during the Woodward Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet on Jan. 21.

Watson, a retired English professor from Oklahoma Baptist University, said he began portraying Rogers a little over 13 years ago. He travels the country performing versions of his Will Rogers character at schools and other venues.

Born in 1879 in Oologah, Indian Territory, Rogers, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, became an international celebrity before his death in 1935. In a time of depression, Rogers was looked to as a voice of optimism and reassurance.

During his performance, Watson will interact with the audience through questions and conversations, both as Rogers and a Rogers scholar. He said his intention is to use the words and ideas of Will Rogers to entertain and educate the audience.

Rogers' wit and humor offered people relief for the blues. But Watson said his words also provided insight into social topics from the time period such as the congressional and political leadership, gas prices, banks, and political and economic corruption.

“It’s almost frightening how much some of his comments from the late 20s and early 30s fit in today,” Watson said, who also added, “I find myself agreeing with a lot of his ideas about banks and Wall Street.”

Watson said he aims to instill in people a more accurate and complex sense of Rogers importance.

“Most people remember him as a cowboy, but he was also successful in so many other areas like movies, stage, radio and newspapers,” he said.

For more information about Doug Watson as Will Rogers you may visit his website at www.watsonswill.com. If you are a teacher or curriculum supervisor interested in booking Watson’s program that correlates with PASS objectives for Oklahoma History you may also get information through the website.

The Woodward Chamber of Commerce Banquet will begin at 7 p.m. Jan. 21 in Clayton Hall of the First Christian Church.

Besides Watson's performance, the Woodward Citizen of the Year and Student Citizen of the Year will also be announced during the banquet.

Tickets are currently on sale and available at the Chamber office. For more information contact the Woodward Chamber of Commerce at 256-7411.

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