CELEBRITY

Interview: Kyal Legend on Her Approach to Auditioning

Photo: Marco Lupi

Actress and dancer, Kyal Legend’s big break was in BACKSTAGE, which was picked up by Netflix. Fans can see Kyal in the upcoming series Utopia Falls, and while she can’t tell us much about it yet, what she was able to tell us, has us eagerly waiting for the release of the series. Glitter sat down with Kyal to discuss her upcoming role, her approach to auditioning, the style of dance that she’s trained in, her morning rituals (we love her morning rituals and try to give thanks in the morning as well), her celebrity crushes and what’s on the horizon for this actress.

GLITTER: How long have you been acting?

KYAL: I started acting when I was about eleven-years-old. I’ve always loved to perform ever since I was a child. Even if it was just in my living room for my family 🙂

GLITTER: What would you say was your big break?

KYAL: I’d say my big break was playing triple threat Julie Maslany for 2 seasons on BACKSTAGE, which ended up being distributed by Disney Channel worldwide and picked up by Netflix.

GLITTER: What can you tell us about Utopia Falls? Who do you play? When will it be airing?

KYAL: I can’t say much (lol) But! Utopia Falls is a sci-fi, coming of age, drama set to air on Hulu. I play Sierra. She’s a very self-driven, brash, bright eyed young woman. She’s the complete opposite of the character I just played on my previous TV series. I like being challenged with the roles I decide to take on. So I’m having a lot of fun playing her.

Photo: Marco Lupi

GLITTER: How are you like your character?

KYAL: We are both similar in the way where we are both very passionate, and ambitious. But Sierra has no time for friendships or sympathy and I love my friends, meeting new people, and forming connections.

GLITTER: How do you prepare for your roles?

KYAL: Good question, for me it’s all about being in the right headspace. So even when I don’t have a project right in front of me I like to make sure I’m getting the sleep, nutrition, and exercise my body needs. That way when the next big role comes around I’m at my best. I’m also a keen observer of human behavior. I love to people watch and I find tons of inspiration all around me every day.

GLITTER: What is your approach to auditioning?

KYAL: First I read through the script and look at my characters behaviors, and attitude. I analyze the part she plays in the story and fill in the gaps with my perspective as to why she’s the way she is, what makes her tick, and who was she before this story starts.

GLITTER: What do you like to do on your free time?

KYAL: I love to travel and spend time with my family, going for Korean food and singing my heart out at karaoke with my boyfriend, thrifting, taking a heels dance class in the city, and doing pottery wheel throwing.

GLITTER: Do you have any celebrity crushes?

KYAL: Guilty. Channing Tatum, Rami Malek, and LilDicky.

GLITTER: What styles of dance are you trained in?

KYAL: Dancing is and always will be my first passion.It has a very special place in my heart. I started dancing when I was eight. Training at various competitive dance studios. And then took it a step further and trained at the National Ballet of Canada for a few years and then the world renowned ALVIN AILEY School in New York City. I’m trained in jazz, ballet, contemporary, tap, acro, and hip hop. But my all-time favorite styles are jazz funk, contemporary, ballet, and hip hop.

GLITTER: Best advice you were ever given?

KYAL: Trust your intuition. And take good advice.

GLITTER: What are your morning rituals?

KYAL: First thing I do in the morning before my feet even touch the ground is I give thanks to the uni-verse. I list all the things I am thankful for. Even if it’s just a simple “I’m thankful for waking up this morn-ing.” I’m a firm believer in the law of attraction, a healthy, strong mindset, and high vibrations. I usually place a glass of lemon water on my nightstand the night before so it’s ready for me to drink in the A.M.Then I open my curtains to let all the beautiful light into my house and make my way to the kitchen to put the kettle on. I’ve really been into doing morning yoga lately. Just to stretch my body out in preparation for my long day of filming. Skin care is next, I’ma skincare fanatic. So I have a strict regimen I stick to haha. It starts with a quick face rinse with warm water, then a spritz of face mist, eye cream, rose pedaloil, serum, and ending it all with some SPF moisturizer

GLITTER: Glitter has a Celebrity #SelfLoveCampaign, what’s self-love mean to you?

KYAL: Self-love is knowing who you are and know-ing that you’re enough. It’s being patient and kind to yourself. And loving every quirk and embracing it.

GLITTER: What positive message do you hope to send women who follow you?

KYAL: There’s a lot of negativity in this world, but you have to believe in yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not good enough or what you can and cannot accomplish. Empower your fellow female and help lift each other up!!