Nick Darke
Nick Darke, born Nicholas Temperley Watson on August 29, 1948, in Cornwall, England, was a prominent playwright known for his keen observations of sea life and his deep connection to the local community. Initially drawn to theater through acting, he transitioned into playwriting and became recognized for his ability to weave community history into compelling narratives. His works, which include notable plays like "A Tickle on the River's Back," "Landmarks," and "Ting Tang Mine," showcase his trademark dark wit and vigorous writing style. Over his career, Darke authored more than twenty plays, many of which were staged by Cornwall's National Theatre. Tragically, he suffered a severe stroke that left him unable to communicate effectively, but he courageously worked towards recovery with the support of his wife, Jane. Their journey was shared in a radio broadcast titled "Dumbstruck." Darke passed away on June 10, 2005, at the age of fifty-six, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of theater.
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Nick Darke
Playwright
- Born: August 29, 1948
- Birthplace: Cornwall, England
- Died: June 10, 2005
- Place of death: Truro, England
Biography
Nick Darke is the pseudonym of Nicholas Temperley Watson, who was born in Cornwall, England, on August 29, 1948. Living on the north Cornish coast, he was a noted fisherman and observer of sea life as well as a distinguished playwright.
Darke was originally attracted to theater by acting, but he eventually became a playwright. He worked with many forms of theater, including children’s plays. He often, and most successfully, dealt with community history as subject matter for his dramatic efforts; many of his plays were produced by Cornwall’s National Theatre. Noted for his dark wit and the vigor of his writing style, some of his more successful plays were A Tickle on the River’s Back (1979), Landmarks (1979), and Ting Tang Mine (1987). Darke wrote more than twenty plays.
Darke suffered a devastating stroke at a relatively young age. Left unable to speak, read, or write, he struggled to recover with the aid of his wife, Jane. The couple detailed their experiences in a radio broadcast entitled Dumbstruck. Despite their valiant efforts, Darke died on June 10, 2005, at the age of fifty-six.