Stage Combat The Podcast: "The Court Watson Story Part One"

Release Date: February 10, 2025
Host: Sean Hayden
Produced by: Haywood Productions, LLC

Introduction and Content Warning (00:00 - 00:43)

The episode opens with Sean Hayden issuing a content warning regarding the sensitive topics of sexual harassment and assault discussed in Court Watson's story. He advises listeners to proceed with caution and refers them to the show notes for supportive resources. Additionally, Hayden mentions that William Ivy Long and the Roanoke Island Historical Association have previously denied the allegations made by Court Watson, setting the stage for a contentious narrative.

Listener Interaction and Introduction to Court Watson (00:43 - 04:29)

Adam Stocker, a 29-year-old listener from New York City's costume industry, shares his experience recalling a 2020 story about Court Watson and William Ivy Long. Stocker highlights a common issue where victims' names are often overshadowed by those of alleged perpetrators. This episode aims to rectify that by delving deeper into Watson's personal account, promising a thorough exploration of his experiences.

Sean Hayden introduces the premise of Season 3, focusing on listeners' stories about confronting mistreatment in their workplaces. He emphasizes the significance of giving victims a platform to share their truths.

Background: The Lost Colony and William Ivy Long’s Reputation (04:29 - 05:50)

A narrated segment provides historical context about Roanoke Island and the Lost Colony amphitheater production established in 1937. The narrative shifts to the year 2000, highlighting William Ivy Long, a celebrated Broadway costume designer renowned for his work on productions like Chicago the Musical and Cabaret. Long's prominence in the industry is underscored by his Tony Awards and his long-term association with the Lost Colony, setting him up as a respected yet influential figure within the theater community.

Court Watson’s Early Experiences at the Lost Colony (05:50 - 08:59)

Court Watson, a childhood resident of Chesapeake, Virginia, shares his initial exposure to the Lost Colony through frequent visits despite financial constraints. His early fascination with theater led him to pursue set design at Virginia Commonwealth University, later gaining costume design experience through summer stock productions.

During his first summer in 2000 as a wardrobe stitcher, Watson describes the responsibilities of maintaining costumes and assisting in dressing actors. He notes that technicians portraying Algonkian Native Americans were Caucasian, painted with terracotta red paint—a reflection of the outdated and insensitive practices of the time.

First Encounters with William Ivy Long (08:59 - 11:17)

Watson recounts his initial meetings with William Ivy Long, characterized by Long’s authoritative and somewhat intimidating presence. Long’s arrival at the costume shop is likened to the character Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada, exuding a mix of charisma and command. During these interactions, Long questions Watson’s age, mistakenly identifying him as a 15-year-old, which adds a layer of complexity to their early relationship.

The podcast transitions to discuss an unsettling meeting where Long dismisses allegations of sexual harassment, asserting, “there is no such thing as sexual harassment in the American theater,” and equating the industry to “pimps and whores” (11:16). This statement silences the staff and highlights the toxic environment fostered by Long’s authority.

Promotion and Increased Interaction (11:17 - 14:32)

Despite the prior unsettling experience, Watson is unexpectedly promoted to wardrobe supervisor in the summer of 2001 after Long expresses approval of his work (12:03). This promotion brings increased interaction with Long, including educational presentations and exclusive invitations to lavish parties at Long’s homes in Seaboard, North Carolina. The parties are described as opulent gatherings attended by local and state politicians, with abundant alcohol served in vintage sterling silver mint julep cups (14:17).

At 19:04, Watson reflects on the cultural and personal significance of Long’s mentorship, especially within the queer community, underscoring the betrayal he felt when Long misused that relationship.

The Incident: Unfolding of Coercion and Assault (14:32 - 26:33)

Court Watson narrates a pivotal and traumatic event during his third summer in 2001. After attending a party at Norma Mills' home, Watson has a consensual encounter with one of Long’s studio associates. However, the next morning, Long confronts Watson with a detailed account of the previous night's events, including explicit descriptions of their intimate interaction (16:21). This public exposure in front of approximately 15 guests creates an atmosphere of shame and isolation for Watson.

Watson discusses the immediate aftermath, feeling numb, isolated, and ostracized, believing he had erred in some way despite being a victim of misconduct (25:22). The loss of support and recognition from Long and the Lost Colony management exacerbates his sense of betrayal and confusion about the shift in his social standing.

Long-Term Impact and Lingering Trauma (26:33 - 30:31)

Returning for a final summer in 2003 to save money for graduate school, Watson tries to distance himself from Long. However, an encounter at Tricorn Costumes in New York City reignites his trauma. Long's unexpected and insincere greeting—“don't you look marvelous. You've gone through puberty”—triggers Watson’s freeze response, illustrating the deep psychological scars left by their previous interactions (30:27). Watson’s colleague, Michael Zecker, notices his distress, prompting Watson to take the rest of the day off, highlighting the lingering effects of the trauma.

Broader Context and Future Implications (30:31 - 33:23)

As years pass, Long continues to achieve acclaim, becoming the chairman of the American Theatre Wing and receiving more Tony Awards. The #MeToo movement's rise in 2017 brings similar allegations against Long to the forefront, paralleling the widespread accountability seen with figures like Harvey Weinstein.

In 2018, BuzzFeed publishes an article discussing ongoing harassment within Broadway, featuring Michael Martin instead of Watson, indicating the continued suppression of victims' voices (32:17). Shortly after, Watson receives a distressing call from the former executive director of the Roanoke Island Historical Association, warning him against speaking out as a damaging article is imminent (32:56). Watson perceives this as emotional blackmail, reinforcing the systemic silencing of victims within the industry (33:28).

Key Quotes and Attributions

• Court Watson (11:16): "There is no such thing as sexual harassment in the American theater. We're all pimps and whores."

• Court Watson (15:17): "When I started being paid attention to by one of his studio assistants, I felt like I was being seen as an adult for the first time by another gay person."

• Court Watson (22:00): "He exposed himself to me. He undid his fly and pulled out his genitals."

• Court Watson (24:53): "I wouldn't have been able to continue my employment there. I wouldn't have been able to make the money I needed to pay my rent."

• Court Watson (33:28): "A veiled threat? Emotional blackmail? Yeah, 100%."

Conclusion

"The Court Watson Story Part One" is a harrowing account of systemic abuse and the silencing of victims within the theater industry. Through detailed personal narratives and corroborating voices, the episode sheds light on the pervasive toxicity wielded by powerful figures like William Ivy Long. Watson's story not only highlights the individual trauma experienced but also underscores the broader cultural and institutional challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against misconduct. As Season 3 progresses, listeners are poised to gain deeper insights into the complexities of standing up against entrenched abuse and the ongoing quest for justice and validation within the creative community.

Stay Tuned for Episode 17: "The Court Watson Story Part Two"

Edited by Alex Griffith
Mixing and Sound Design by Justin Gerrish

For feedback, contact us via Instagram at @stagecombatthepodcast or email us at stagecombatthepodcastmail.com.

Disclaimer: The content in this episode is not medical or legal advice. Please consult with a medical professional or attorney for assistance.