Opening night of End of the Rainbow ended with London’s Soho Theatre giving a standing ovation to RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Jinkxs Monsoon for her portrayal of Judy Garland.
After years of starring on Broadway, Jinkx made the move to the West End for Peter Quilter’s musical.
End of the Rainbow is about the final months of the Wizard of Oz star’s life as she prepares for a five-week run of shows at a London nightclub.
@ohsheisascorpio Judy Garland’s story is such a tragic and heartbreaking one, yet somehow only Jinkx Monsoon can make you belly laugh so hard while still quietly breaking your heart ❤️ Such a bittersweet feeling. End of the Rainbow – Opening night at Soho Theatre Walthamstow. Adorable Jinkx Monsoon taking the first bow 🥹 and we’re cheering our hearts out 👏🫂 • • • • • ———- #jinkxmonsoon #londontheatre #endoftherainbow #rupaulsdragrace #theatrekids ♬ original sound – Ipek 🍒
Of course, this isn’t Jinkx’s first time playing Judy:
Knowing her portrayal as Judy Garland from Drag Race All Stars lives rent free in many fans’ minds, Jinkx detailed how her role in End of the Rainbow differs from Snatch Game.
“I know people know me for impressions and imitations, but I’m thrilled for this chance to explore beyond the laughter and into the heart of why we still think so much about Judy today.”
“Her tale is one that we can’t forget, especially as women in entertainment are still fighting for autonomy and agency in their own careers.”
@dragcvnt talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique #sashacolby #bobthedragqueen #dragqueen #drag #rpdruk #lipsyncforyourlife #dragcon #rpdr #rupaul #rupaulsdragrace #trixieandkatya #trixiemattel #dragrace ♬ suono originale – Drag Race Fanpage
Jinkx’s journey to London’s Soho Theatre:
Matron “Mama” Morton in Chicago (Broadway) – Made her Broadway debut in 2023 and returned for an extended run in 2024.
Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors (Off-Broadway) – Starred in the revival, making history as the first trans woman to play the role.
Ruth in Pirates! The Penzance Musical (Broadway) – Starred in the Roundabout Theatre Company revival production in 2025.
Mary Todd Lincoln in Oh, Mary! (Broadway) – Rejoined the hit comedy for a sold-out run in 2025.
