date published: February 26, 2007

Linda Evans    
by Josh B. Wardrop

Actress Linda Evans thrilled soap opera fans as Krystle Carrington in the 1980s mega-hit serial “Dynasty.” Now, she’s joined her former catfight opponent Joan Collins in a touring production of Legends!, a comedy about dueling showbiz divas. Evans talks to Panorama about art imitating art.

Q: The obvious question: how does it feel to be reunited with Joan?
A: What’s really great about it is that we know how to do this rivalry thing. It really helps that we have this nine-year history where people remember us as women who loathe each other, which benefits Legends! immensely.

Q: People do have that image of you and Joan as adversaries. What is your working relationship like?
A: Acting is like any job: everyone has worked with people who are considered to be “difficult.” But if you’re a professional, you just go to work and do your job. People sometimes forget that co-stars don’t have to be either best friends or bitter adversaries.

Q: After 40 years of acting, you’re making your stage debut. Scary?
A: A complete shock to the system. The last time I was onstage was in junior high—I wouldn’t get up to give a book report, so my principal forced me to take theater classes! It’s been a steep learning curve, but I completely understand why people fall in love with theatrical performance.

Q: Have you had much opportunity to work in or visit Boston in the past?
A: I’ve never spent extended time here, but I do love the city—it’s so exquisitely designed. What’s particularly sweet about a touring show is getting to explore new cities!

Q: Is there one piece of audience feedback you’ve heard consistently about Legends?
A: The question I get most is ‘Were you having as much fun up there as it seemed?’ And the truth is, I have fun every night.