Ramsay Ure, EdinburghRating: 8Caroline O'Connor's powerhouse performance as Judy Garland in her final stay in London has to be one of the musical highlights of this year's Festival Fringe. Without giving in to cheap sensationalism, 'End Of The Rainbow' successfully combines an outstanding homage to Garland's musical talent, whilst exploring many aspects of the damage wrought by a lifetime of alcohol and drug abuse. Initially we laugh with Graland at the excesses of her life, for at first it appears that she's enjoying the rollercoaster ride. However, when we realise she can't get off - physically, psychologically and financially - the fun subsides. Of the cast of three, O'Connor's performance is unsurprisingly the strongest. Less successful are the renderings of Mickey Deans, Garland's fifth and final husband and that of Anthony, her loyal accompanist. Of the latter, it is somewhat unfortunate that he bears more than a passing resemblance to David Walliams and is every bit as wet in his portrayal of Anthony as Walliams is in that of Andy's politically correct care worker, Lou in 'Little Britain'! I guess it must have been a tough call finding a skilled pianist who could also act well! Caroline O'Connor is more than capable of carrying a show like this alone - her charisma and interpretation of Garland as woman and performer is compelling and memorable.
