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.