Interview with Kayla Boye

Few Hollywood icons have lived a life quite as extraordinary as Elizabeth Taylor. Call Me Elizabeth: A Life In Two Parts takes audiences beyond the glamour to reveal the woman behind the legend, exploring the triumphs, heartbreaks and remarkable resilience that defined one of cinema's greatest stars. Ahead of the show's Edinburgh Fringe run, I sat down with Kayla Boye, writer and performer of the production, to discuss portraying such an iconic figure, the extensive research behind the show, and why Elizabeth Taylor's story continues to captivate audiences around the world.

What first drew you to Elizabeth Taylor as a subject?

I was first drawn to Elizabeth Taylor as a young girl, when I watched National Velvet on Turner Classic Movies. In addition to her captivating screen presence, Elizabeth struck me with her passion, intelligence, and empathy. She was first in my mind as a solo show subject because of her multifaceted, memorable life on and off the screen.

What aspects of Taylor's life surprised you most?

Elizabeth was a survivor of many unbelievable events and circumstances, with extreme highs and lows. Any one of the tragedies she experienced could have been enough to level a person, but she chose to keep going. She wasn’t just an [extraordinarily] pretty face -- she was extremely resilient.

How do you move beyond the public image to reveal the real person?

The concept of the play is an intimate conversation with Elizabeth at her bungalow at The Beverly Hills Hotel. The audience gets a firsthand experience of Elizabeth the person as she deals with the dynamics of the studio system and celebrity culture (Part One), and later as she embraces her fame to get involved in the fight against AIDS (Part Two). 

How did you approach portraying such an iconic figure?

As an actor, I ground my portrayal in authenticity by staying true to the emotions Elizabeth is experiencing. I channel her essence with my physical characterization and vocal inflections by watching and listening to her recorded interviews before the show. I approach her with honesty and humour so that I may connect with the audience on a human level.

Which period of her life was the most fascinating to explore?

When I initially wrote Call Me Elizabeth, I focused on Elizabeth’s early life through 1961 as I was interested in exploring her origin story. However, since expanding the show into two acts, I have become fascinated by her 1985 chapter, as that is when Elizabeth entered her activism era. What makes a person speak out when others are looking away? I explore how her compassion and integrity combined to make her an unstoppable force.

How important was her AIDS activism to your interpretation?

Elizabeth’s AIDS activism was arguably her proudest legacy, as well as her family and friendships. I expanded the show into two acts so that I could focus on this chapter of her life. It was important to show how her previous life experiences led her to take a stand when others refused to get involved.

Did your perception of Elizabeth Taylor change during the process?

Yes! It can be tempting to put Elizabeth on a pedestal, as she was, as Richard Burton said, “too bloody much,” but Elizabeth was really quite down to earth with a bawdy sense of humour. The show embraces that aspect of her personality, especially in Part Two.

How do you balance glamour and humanity?

Between swigs of champagne, we see Elizabeth delighting in dropping a plethora of colorful words. The contrast in glamour and realism makes for a captivating character study!

How do you handle portraying real historical figures responsibly?

I conduct thorough research through a variety of sources, including reading biographies and articles, watching films and interviews, and engaging in personal interviews with primary sources. For me, historical shows come alive when the details are correct, which extends to the design of the show, especially the attire and props. I use vintage costumes and magazines from the time period. I also do my utmost to channel the essence of the person, which hopefully inspires audiences to go watch their actual films!

Regarding Elizabeth, I had the opportunity to speak with her sixth husband, the late Senator John Warner, who provided warm recollections of their relationship and that period of her life. On this production, I have been very grateful to collaborate with producer and dramaturg Guy Masterson, who has brought firsthand knowledge of the subject matter as grandnephew of Richard Burton.

What conversations do you hope the show sparks after performances?

I hope that audiences are inspired to get involved in causes as Elizabeth did. Consider how you want to be remembered, and what you can do today.

What does bringing the show to Edinburgh mean?

This will be my third Fringe, but my first full run! I am looking forward to sharing the expanded show with Edinburgh audiences.

What do you hope audiences discover about Elizabeth Taylor?

I hope audiences discover that Elizabeth’s legacy is one of love, and that we each have the power to make a positive difference in the world.

Through compassion, humour and honesty, Call Me Elizabeth: A Life in Two Parts shines a light on a remarkable life that extends far beyond the headlines. A huge thanks to Kayla Boye for sharing the creative journey behind the production, and I look forward to seeing audiences rediscover Elizabeth Taylor through this compelling solo performance. Call Me Elizabeth runs at the Assembly George Square Studio 2 at the Edinburgh Fringe at 3:30pm. For more information on this two part show head to https://www.callmeelizabeth.com/