PARAMARIBO — Stand-up comedian Herbert Watson, better known as ‘Wattie’ is preparing for his new solo show ‘Wattie ToenDate’ in August. “It’s my gift to the fans who have supported me for years,” he says the True Time for.
The title ‘Wattie ToenDate’ refers to the path Watson has taken to get where he is today. “The show is about what I did back then to get where I am now. It is life experiences of mine and others, presented with a comedic twist. That is my standard style of comedy.” According to him, the audience can count on recognizable situations, sharp observations and personal stories in which humor and emotion come together.
“Stand-up comedy is my passion. I still have big plans for it”
Breakthrough
Watson notes that Surinamese stand-up comedy is on the rise. “You notice it in the solo shows that are being organized more and more often. The comedy scene is experiencing significant growth.”
The comedian, known for years as a joker during family parties and small-scale events, had his ‘breakthrough’ in 2015 when he won Comedy Glam, a comedy competition by Bijlhout Media on television. Since then he has appeared on stage several times in smaller roles with seasoned stand-up comedians such as Roué Verveer and Jörgen Raymann.
He performed at XL Comedy Jam, Verveer Tori, Tjar’ A Lafu, Big Comedy JamFatu 010 and De Nieuwjaarsrede, among others. “Those were wonderful moments, but my greatest personal highlights remain my own solo shows.”
Motivation
The ‘Wattie Wil’ series consists of ‘Wattie Wil’ (2021), ‘Wattie Wil Meer’ (2022) and ‘Wattie wil Nicx’ (2025). ‘Wattie ToenDate’ is a new chapter in the series. “Organizing a solo show is always a special experience for me. It makes me proud. All the messages and words of encouragement give me even more motivation to be on stage. I want to give people value for their money.”
According to Watson, comedy never really started for him. “Humor was always there. Within the family I was known as the funny one. I was the one who created the atmosphere during meetings.” That natural talent eventually grew into his greatest passion.
Basketball
Herbert was born in Marowijne and has lived in Paramaribo since 1987. In daily life he is a police officer. He also played basketball for many years. With CLD he became national champion four times in a row. “Even in the dressing room I was always the one who broke the tension with a joke,” he says about that period.
With ‘Wattie ToenDate’ Watson wants to once again show how he has developed as a comedian and let his audience enjoy recognizable stories, humor from everyday life and his characteristic style. However, his ambition extends further than one performance. “Stand-up comedy is my passion. I still have big plans for it. There is no age limit for it, so I will continue with it.”
