End of the Rainbow to tour the UK next year %7C Lisa Maxwell as Judy Garland

The West End and Broadway hit show End of the Rainbow will tour the UK in 2016.

The production is set in 1968 and tells the story of Judy Garland, a once-glittering star who is in London to make her comeback – but her personal life is a far cry from her life in the public eye.

Behind the scenes she battles with her young fiancé, her devoted accompanist and her destructive addictions. The musical contemplates whether or not she’ll be able to conquer her demons and reclaim the crown as one of history’s great musical icons.

The lead role will be played by Lisa Maxwell who is best known for her role as Samantha Nixon in The Bill. She also appeared as a panellist on Loose Women.

At certain performances however, the role of July Garland will be played by Ellen Verenieks.

End of the Rainbow first premiered in 2005 at the Sydney Opera House before playing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival the following year.

The show will open on 12th February at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester, and will conclude at the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham on 9th July. Venues in between include Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury, Theatre Royal in Brighton and Swan Theatre in High Wycombe.

For more information visit www.endoftherainbowtour.co.uk.