Two-time RuPaul's Drag Race winner Jinkx Monsoon has brought her acclaimed portrayal of Judy Garland to London in Peter Quilter's play 'End of the Rainbow' at Soho Theatre Walthamstow. The production, running from 22 May to 20 June 2026, offers a poignant look at the final months of the legendary screen star's life.
A Star in Decline
Set in 1968, months before Garland's accidental drug overdose at age 47, the play focuses on her struggles with addiction, financial troubles, and a demanding London residency. Quilter's script, which earned Olivier Award nominations in its 2010 West End premiere, paints an intimate portrait of a woman who has become detached from herself, essentially performing the role of Judy Garland.
Monsoon, known for her drag artistry and Broadway credits, delivers an incandescent performance. She portrays Garland with impish wit and sass, delivering lines like 'Darling, I've met everybody. Or to be correct, everybody's met me' with perfect timing. Her vocal prowess shines in songs such as 'Just in Time' and 'The Trolley Song'.
The Supporting Cast
Jacob Dudman plays Mickey, Garland's fifth husband, a controlling figure who both enables and exploits her substance abuse. Adam Filipe portrays Anthony, her devoted pianist, a gentle gay man who credits Garland with saving his life. Both actors effectively remain in Monsoon's shadow, as the script demands.
Production and Setting
Director Rupert Hands' production, while heartfelt, could benefit from tighter pacing; press night ran 30 minutes over schedule. However, the extended time with Monsoon seemed welcome. Jasmine Swan's set design features a grand piano at center stage, surrounded by white, cloud-like steps that create an ethereal atmosphere. The costumes, a rotation of silky, glittery garments, enhance Monsoon's transformation.
Notably, the play is staged at Soho Theatre Walthamstow, a Zone 3 venue, rather than the West End. It marks the first production to fully utilize the theater's vast space since its opening last year.
Verdict
While the ending may feel slightly mawkish, the play offers a somber reflection on a tragic story. Monsoon's performance is a revelation, proving she is not just a drag superstar but a formidable dramatic actress. In portraying Garland's decline, Monsoon herself rises as a star.
Tickets range from £29 to £64, with performances scheduled through June. Running time is 2 hours 30 minutes.
