Review Roundup: Angela Ingersoll Led END OF THE RAINBOW at La Mirada - What Did The Critics Think?

END OF THE RAINBOW runs through November 12 at La Mirada Theatre. It has a book by Peter Quilter, with music direction by Jon Steinhagen.

The real fireworks happened offstage. It's December 1968 and Judy Garland is about to make her comeback...again. In a London hotel room, with both her new young fiancé and her adoring accompanist, Garland struggles to get "beyond the rainbow" with her signature cocktail of talent, tenacity and razor-sharp wit. Featuring some of Garland's most memorable songs, this savagely funny play-with-music offers unique insight into the inner conflict that inspired and consumed one of the most beloved figures of our time.

The cast stars Angela Ingersoll as Judy Garland, Jon Steinhagen as Anthony, Zachary Ford as Mickey Deans, and Brian Wallace as a variety of supporting roles.

END OF THE RAINBOW is directed by Michael Matthews, with set design by Stephen Gifford, costume design by Bill Morey, lighting design by Steven Young, and sound design by Josh Bessom.

Let's see what the critics had to say!

Imaan Jalali, LA Excites: As uncanny as Angela Ingersoll is as Garland, while giving the part her own personal stamp, it is the meaningful message she imparts that supersedes everything else... Worthy of the highest recommendation, Peter Quilter's "End of the Rainbow" is the humanizing account of Judy Garland's mournful exit from the spotlight that, as dismaying as it is at times to watch, simply had to be told. Joined by a first-rate cast in this revival, Michael Matthews directs with a delicate hand and a perspicacious eye, respectful of Garland and her legacy.

Michael Quintos, BroadwayWorld: In an astonishing portrayal that will give you chills throughout, Ingersoll embodies Garland in a way that transcends mere acting or even impersonation (though, to be sure, she basically has her vocal mannerisms and body language mastered). As Garland, Ingersoll is transcendent, hilarious, awkward, luminous, sensuous, and, ultimately, heartbreaking... But, overall, I must say that the true draw for this new production of END OF THE RAINBOW is to witness Ingersoll's note-perfect portrait of Garland in the latter stage of her life. Rendered with great humanity and empathy, you may never look at Garland the same after seeing this captivating performance.

Elaine Mura, Splash Magazine: Kudos to award-winning director Michael Matthews, who manages to carry off this sleight-of-hand with apparent ease. Bill Morey's costumes add the glitz that surrounded La Garland in her heyday. Stephen Gifford's scenic design, Steven Young's lighting, and Josh Bessom's sound competently add to the ambiance. And let's not forget Jon Steinhagen, who doubles as Anthony and musical director for the production (with more than a little assistance by his talented six-member band).

Eric Marchese, Orange County Register: Anchoring "Rainbow" is a smart script and dialogue, with characters to match. Quilter shows Garland as the consummate show-biz personality, consumed by her work, reputation, press coverage and popularity. In private, as we see, Garland was offhandedly blunt and foul-mouthed. Quilter, Ingersoll and Matthews deftly bring out the star's competent exterior while showing the needy, vulnerable soul beneath that façade.

Photo Credit: Jason Niedle

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