End of the Rainbow at the Waterside Theatre Aylesbury Review
End of the Rainbow
Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury
1-5March 2016
Reviewed by Hilary Whates
Emotional, dark, comedic, harrowing, stunning.
All those adjectives describe this remarkable tribute to the enormously famous but entirely broken superstar, Judy Garland. What an extraordinary performance by Lisa Maxwell – so utterly believable in such a complex role – portraying so well the enormous mood swings from huge happiness to fear and despair. There were many people standing to applaud her at the end of the evening.
The action primarily takes place in a ‘small’ room at The Ritz in London, home for the next 6 weeks while the star performs nightly at The Talk of the Town. We are introduced to this tiny in size but huge in stature actress whose life-long dependence on drugs, cigarettes and alcohol cannot be changed despite all efforts to do so. Clearly a victim of the organisation (and family) that ‘groomed’ her to stardom by ensuring she coped with the long days by plying her with uppers and downers, it was a little shocking to see that ultimately that meant it was the only path she could take to be able to perform at all. The play is set within the last few months of her life but gives an insight into how she has reached that moment.
With her newly acquired ‘fiancé’ Mickey Deans played laconically by Sam Attwater, and who provides a slightly edgy and sinister at times element to the drama, they arrive at the Ritz to be greeted by pianist and long-time friend Anthony Chapman. Gary Wilmot delivers a considered and outstanding performance in his role as gay friend, confidant and would be saviour of the damaged Judy Garland. You can feel his worry and pain that she is heading again down a path of hurt and despair.
Each scene brings joy and torment in equal measure. If you are not a fan of swearing you may find some of the language difficult and unnecessary but it felt really appropriate to the moment. The vocal performances by Lisa Maxwell were truly outstanding – especially as she has captured the mannerisms, pathos, comedy, tragedy, confidence and doubts that assailed Judy Garland through her life.
This is a BIG performance about a big star. I would add to your list as a ‘must see’.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £16.90 to £34.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
End of the Rainbow is at the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury until 5 March 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7607.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG
