allworthy asks:
Congratulations on your Olivier nomination for best actress. I’ve been lucky to see you twice in productions. Is there a theatre role you would love to play?
Guardian contributor
I did see a bit of myself in Hedda Gabler – I see myself in all my roles
ToastofHastings asks:
I have seen Hedda Gabler three times and I’m looking to top that up with the NT Live. Never really got Ibsen before, but your interpretation of her was stunning – you have an amazing gift. Do you see a bit of Hedda in yourself, or is that a mean question? Congratulations on your nomination, thoroughly deserved.
Guardian contributor
Mean but not ill-intentioned, I know what you're getting at even though she's a pretty awful person. I did see a bit of myself in Hedda, but then I see myself in all of my roles, in some way. I bring the entirety of my life experience to each role and try to find common ground with the character, so I suppose I force myself to see myself in all of them, as a bit of an exercise. As for Hedda specifically, I get her frustration, and feeling trapped by it, but I'd like to think I'm aware enough to know there's a way out rather than closing off all my options one by one like she does.
jakphan66 asks:
Congratulations on your Olivier nomination! I have read that you endeavour to play different characters with each new project. How do you feel about playing sisters with Rachel Weisz again [in Disobedience]? You were wonderful together in Streetcar.
Guardian contributor
We're not playing sisters, we're playing cousins-in-law! And best friends. And possibly more... but it's wonderful to work with her again, she's incredible.
ID5851048 asks:
Any good or bad memories of studying at Oxford?
Guardian contributor
Mostly good memories! Bad memories of many rushed train journeys back and forth to London to doggedly pursue acting and a degree simultaneously, though.
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jakphan66 asks:
Have you done a NT Live before? Are you excited? What are your thoughts?
Guardian contributor
bethune22 asks:
Congratulations on your Olivier award nomination. I watched the play last night (06/03) and I’m so glad you have been nominated. I was interested in knowing a bit of the history/backstory you created for Hedda. I read the play myself in the days leading up to attending and had created my own, quite strong, feelings about her past. I just wanted to know yours
.
Guardian contributor
I did think a lot about it, as there isn't a whole lot in the play itself about Hedda, it's suggested by not spelled out. I felt she'd always been the centre of attention, that she'd always been destructive, and had never quite recovered from losing both of her parents and her first really meaningful relationship. I think our first loves can either define us or inform us, and she's the former; when he comes back, she sees freedom again for the first time but has to destroy everything else to get it. Ivo had always felt it was a suicide play, and I felt they perhaps had a suicide pact from early on.
gwills24 asks:
What were your drama school auditions like? Any tips?
Guardian contributor
At the time I thought I'd aced it, which is probably why I was rejected. The best advice I can give for any audition for anything is to be yourself, use pieces you can relate to, and don't be afraid of the vulnerability that comes with that, because that's what will be most appealing about you if you can show it.
Elizabeth is with us now ...
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I actually don't even watch Doctor Who, so I'm not qualified and think it'd be great if it could go to someone who values it, male or female.