Actress Elizabeth Connick sat down with fairypowered to answer 20 questions. Elizabeth is currently playing Haley in The Pitchfork Disney. Currently playing at The Kings Head in London until 4 October, tickets available here
Let’s start with a few favourites
What’s your favourite show of all time (whether you’ve performed in it or not)?
I’m not sure I have a favourite, I’m too indecisive and I tend to love it all. I was fortunate to be in a production of Paula Vogel’s Indecent while in training at Royal Welsh. It was magic. It combines music with storytelling effortlessly. It’s so moving and provocative. I’d love to do it again
Your favourite book?
Too hard… but one I think of often is Educated by Tara Westover.
Do you have a favourite theatre (to perform in or visit)?
The Yard. I think it’s a really exciting space, with really exciting programming. Can’t wait to see what’s next for them in the new venue!
A favourite song you never get tired of?
You’ll Never Walk Alone
What kind of music do you love most?
Stuff that I can belt out generally. To counter the subject matter of Pitchfork we’ve been working with a lot of noughties pop in the dressing room, which is a treat.
Your go-to comfort food?
Chicken soup.
Your favourite drink?
Pisco Sour. Preferably on a rooftop in Lisbon with my sister.
Of all the parts you’ve played, which has been your favourite role?
I’m not being bias, but it’s got to be Haley. She is a force to be reckoned with and it’s the greatest challenge and honour to play her.
What was your very first role on stage?
I think I was a Wise Man in my primary school nativity if that counts.
And is there a dream role you’d love to play one day?
I find this question difficult but to name a few…Stella in Streetcar. Lady Macbeth. I saw Kristen Scott-Thomas play Electra. It was spell-bounding. One day I’d love to give that a go.
If you weren’t a performer, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
I think I liked the idea of being a columnist for some high-flying paper like the New York Times. But it’s probably because I’ve watched too many political thrillers, like All the President’s Men. It’s a weakness of mine.
What first inspired you to become a performer?
My first core memory of being like ‘I want to do this’, was that production of Electra at the Old Vic. I remember watching Kristen in the curtain call and it taking her a couple of bows to emerge from her character back into the room. I thought that was incredible. It really stayed with me.
Do you enjoy life on tour?
It was great! I was in such brilliant company; we had a real laugh. We also all really loved and believed in the show. A challenging, tiring but beautiful few weeks for sure.
What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Learn a language!
Have you ever thought about branching out into producing or directing?
Yes, in fact I directed my first short film last year which was a great experience. I write for TV and Film but haven’t ventured into playwriting. There’s something that intimidates me about it… maybe one day.
What was the last stage show you saw that you really loved?
I loved The Glass Menagerie at the Yard.
Do you have a favourite line from any play or musical?
“I guess to him they were all my sons.” Breaks my heart.
If you could swap lives with anyone for a day, who would it be?
My sister? Find all my clothes that have ‘gone missing’. Plus, she lives in a sunny country.
What’s the nicest — or strangest — gift you’ve ever received from a fan?
I don’t think I’ve ever received one. But I’m open to it. Strange or nice.
And finally, can you give us a hint of what’s next for you?
Ha! There are exciting prospects in the pipeline and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next. I’ve loved being in the theatre this year – it really is magic.
The Pitchfork Disney is playing the Kings Head in London. Tickets can be found here