Karla Boye has flown into the Fringe with her part two series of Call Me Elizabeth; From Burton to Humanitarian. It’s 1985, the time when the HIV and AIDS epidemic was becoming a serious medical, social and political concern in the USA. The impact of AIDS affected Gay and bisexual men severely including Hollywood movie stars who were not exempt from the disease. Elizabeth in her privileged position as a movie star wanted to make a difference and raise the profile the AIDS by engaging other stars to support her cause. Ichard
The stark relevance of the subject matter moves quickly to her relationship with Richard Burton and they’re on and off-screen relationship of fights, breakups, love and marriage. She narrates from a chair moving slowly to the phone, her drinks trolley and engages the audience in a style that she is talking to just ‘you’ in her living room. Karla Boye has got her pitch off to a tee with slick characterisation of Taylor, her mannerisms and flamboyant style of decadence.
Part Two brings forth a gossipy tale of Burton’s character the womanising, the diamonds and his ‘true love’ for Elizabeth. This one-woman show is vibrant in its delivery and reminds you how the movie stars, royalty and pop icons changed the political landscape and societal viewpoints of AIDS. Whilst raising the financial backing to create a drug to help and provide a lifeline to all people suffering from HIV.
If you like all things, Eizabeth Taylor; this show is for you.
Written & performed by Kayla Boye
Directed by Micheal Weber
This play commences at 15.30pm duration 1hour no Interval
Fringe Run 05th -30th Aug 2026 Assembly George Square Studio Two
Booking Link; https://assemblyfestival.com
Reviewer: Michelle Knight
Reviewed: 26th August 2026
North West End UK / Theatre Muse UK Rating: