Dennis Scott (writer)
- For other people of the same name, see Dennis Scott.
Dennis Scott (16 December 1939 – 21 February 1991) was a Jamaican poet, playwright, actor (best known for appearances on The Cosby Show) and dancer.
Education
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Scott was educated at the University of the West Indies and taught in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and at Yale University in the United States.
He wrote a famous poem called 'Marrysong' which is used in the IGCSE syllabus. Scott was also a successful playwright, theatre director, and drama teacher. During his life, he published numerous poetry collections, the most famous of which being Uncle Time, and Dreadwalk.
Poetry
Scott was one of the most significant poets writing in the early post-independence period in Jamaica, and his first published collection, Uncle Time, is marked by an effective literary use of the vernacular. He has been regarded as one of the main influences for modern Jamaican popetry.
Acting
Scott was an original member of the National Dance Theatre Company founded by Rex Nettleford in the 1960s. Scott is also known for his role as Lester Tibedeaux in the Cosby Show.
Teaching
Scott taught at the Yale School of Drama, and was head of the Directing program from 1986 until his death.
Death
Scott died in New Haven, Connecticut at age 51.
External links
- http://www.jrank.org/literature/pages/9994/Dennis-Scott.html Short Biography of Scott
- http://www.peepaltreepress.com/author_display.asp?au_id=144