Elizabeth Taylor’s Unexpected Cameo at the London Studio
Let me tell you a story about the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. Back in the day, when the student cast was recording Dr. Faustus in a London studio, she didn’t have to be there. But she tagged along with her husband, Richard Burton, anyway. Now, here’s the kicker—instead of lounging around or making a fuss, this Oscar-winning star spent her time making sandwiches, boiling water for tea, and chatting with everyone over coffee. British actor David Wood recalls the moment vividly, telling Closer, “It all felt perfectly normal.” Can you imagine? One of the biggest stars in the world blending right in like it was just another day.
1966: A Year Far from Ordinary
In 1966, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton weren’t exactly living ordinary lives. Even after two years of marriage, the paparazzi, reporters, and fans were relentless, following them everywhere they went. So, when this powerhouse couple agreed to star in an amateur production of Dr. Faustus at Oxford University—without getting paid—it came as a massive surprise. “We really didn’t believe they would come,” admits David, who shares the story in his new memoir, Elizabeth Taylor’s Kiss and Other Brushes with Hollywood. The couple’s decision to join the production was nothing short of extraordinary.
Richard Burton’s Heartfelt Gesture
Richard Burton offered to appear in the play to thank his mentor, Prof. Nevill Coghill, for his guidance early in his career. “It was an extraordinary gesture, but he wanted to do something to raise money for the Oxford University Dramatic Society,” David explains. And here’s the best part—Richard didn’t stop there. He turned to his wife and said, “Why don’t you play Helen of Troy?” Elizabeth, who had never acted on stage before, surprisingly agreed. Can you imagine the courage it took for her to step into such a role? It’s a testament to her adventurous spirit.
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The Spotlight on the Burtons
Now, let’s talk about the scene they created. The couple didn’t exactly blend into the background. Picture this: a Rolls-Royce pulling up, their entourage in tow, including Gaston, their trusty chauffeur-bodyguard. “Burton didn’t carry money,” David recalls with a laugh. “If we went to the pub and he was buying drinks, Gaston would take care of it.” And here’s the funniest part—Richard didn’t even carry his own cigarettes. “He’d wave his hand behind his shoulder, snap his fingers, and Gaston would come running!” Can you picture that? It was a scene straight out of a movie.
Elizabeth Taylor: A Heart of Gold
But Elizabeth? She was a different story altogether. She carried herself with grace and kindness. One night, during a party, Elizabeth noticed David’s girlfriend having a little too much to drink. Instead of ignoring it, she quietly pulled David aside and whispered, “David, I cleaned her up. I think you’d better take her home.” Talk about thoughtful! She also noticed the holes in David’s sweaters and gifted him two of Richard’s. “I still have them,” David confesses. “I’ve never worn them.” Now that’s a keepsake you don’t forget.
A Legacy That Lives On
Today, the Burton Taylor Studio, funded by the proceeds from that very production, is a beloved venue for student performances at Oxford. And David? He cherishes the memories of the couple, especially the sweet kiss Elizabeth gave him on his 22nd birthday. “It was the last time we would see them,” he says with a smile. “Her kiss seemed very natural in a funny sort of way.”
