Tracie Bennett Takes on the Last Days of Judy Garland as End of the Rainbow Begins Performances

Peter Quilter’s biographical play End of the Rainbow, about the last days of superstar Judy Garland, begins performances at the Belasco Theatre on March 19. The drama, which features music from the singer's iconic career, is directed by Terry Johnson (La Cage aux Folles) and stars two-time Olivier Award winner Tracie Bennett as Garland. The show officially opens on April 3.

Set in London in 1968, End of the Rainbow offers a glimpse into the period leading up to the Garland’s final days. About to make her comeback at a local nightclub, with her loyal pianist Anthony (Michael Cumpsty) and a new young fiancé Mickey Deans (Tom Pelphrey) at her side, the actress battles a tornado of drugs and alcohol. The show features some of Garland's most memorable songs, including “The Man That Got Away,” “Come Rain or Come Shine,” “The Trolley Song” and “Over the Rainbow.”

End of the Rainbow debuted in London in November 2010 and received rave reviews for Bennett's star turn. The play enjoyed a pre-Broadway engagement, featuring the current Broadway cast, earlier this year at Minneapolis' Guthrie Theatre from January 28 through March 11.