Nina's 9: Getting to Know Kayla Caulfield

‘CODA’ cast member shares some of her favorite things

New England native Kayla Caulfield has been in front of the camera most of her 24 years. At 14, modeling took her around the world. By 17 she was on the big screen. To date, 21 films carry a Kayla Caulfield credit with another four waiting in the wings. Kayla’s latest film, “CODA,” is now in theaters. Garnering four awards at Sundance, “CODA” is already getting Oscar attention. (Kayla portrays a principal singer in the film.)

My connection to Kayla started long before she was born. I had interviewed Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin early on in my career. Marlee has the starring role in “CODA.” One of my more recent stories focused on Massachusetts fashion designer David Josef, who later became my friend. Kayla and David are friends. Kayla will add four more films to her resume this year alone. Now let me introduce her …

NINA: From the onset of your auspicious career, can you share a favorite story?

KAYLA: This is an awesome question. Just recently I was working on a film in Rhode Island being directed by Kyra Sedgwick. As a I was sitting there getting ready for a scene, I heard Kyra in the corner saying, “Oh my goodness!” Next thing I knew she was standing right next to me with her phone and told me I looked exactly like the girl in the famous painting, “The Girl with the Pearl Earring.” I was so flabbergasted and told Kyra that I get that resemblance a lot.

NINA: If you could invite four celebrities to a dinner party, who would they be?

KAYLA: Lady Gaga, Bobby Orr, Robert Plant (I love Led Zeppelin) and Melissa McCarthy.

NINA: In a few words, what was a favorite moment/memory while filming “CODA?”

KAYLA: There is a scene in the film when we are in the chorus room in the school and we had to do a breathing exercise called Big Dog Little Dog — panting like dogs. We had to do that scene so many times that after a while we kept laughing, our teacher Mr. V. played by the amazing Eugenio Derbez was just so fun to work with.

NINA: Haute couture, have it or not? What’s your favorite fabric, color, and designer? How about your favorite perfume scent? Favorite cosmetics line?

KAYLA: I love the feel of cotton, it is so comfortable. My favorite color at the moment is green. I just started liking that color. [Designer] Coco Channel — I have not worn any of her designs as of yet. As for perfume I like Daisy Love by Marc Jacobs and my favorite cosmetic line is Urban Decay.

NINA: What do you like most about yourself?

KAYLA: I do have a good sense of humor, once I get to know people my funny side comes out. I am also very caring.

PC: Brian Knapp

NINA: What should someone know about you before meeting you for the first time?

KAYLA: I am very shy, which is surprising because of the business I am in, and also very insecure.

NINA: What would you like your life to look like 10 years from now?

KAYLA: I would love to be traveling. I would love to see so many beautiful places here in the United States first before I travel abroad. Hopefully married with lots of dogs.

NINA: Who is your favorite singer? Actor?

KAYLA: After watching “Bohemian Rhapsody” I love Freddie Mercury, what a talented showman. Actor, I love Billy Bob Thornton.