Judy’s Encore
- Matthew D. Foster
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
Memorable and glamorous defined the evening of Judy's Encore, performed by Ali Harper. From the moment the music began, with Matthew Everingham on piano and Hillai Govreen on clarinet, the audience was transported into Judy Garland's world. The performance evokes the singer's later years, when her life on stage and in smoky piano lounges reflected her brilliance and longing for the past.
I wasn't looking for a traditional plot or a tidy arc of hope. Instead, the show invited me to step into Judy Garland's world and simply live there for a while. Forget that it was part of the United Solo Festival; it felt like being transported to a smoky nightclub, watching Garland herself perform. This wasn't about glamour or nostalgia but love, loss, and the fight for self-dignity.
Ali Harper captures Judy with grace and authenticity, revealing her brilliance and fragility. Through music, gesture, and raw emotion, Harper channels the spirit of a woman shaped by fame, addiction, and resilience. Her performance never slips into imitation; instead, it feels like an honest translation of Judy's soul.
The show traces the final chapter of Judy Garland's life, beginning as a roller coaster of imagined success before descending into the emotional realities behind the legend. Ali Harper portrays Garland in her later years, not as the untouchable star of Hollywood, but as a woman confronting her inner battles with honesty and vulnerability. Harper's portrayal is grounded and luminous, revealing the strength and fragility that defined Judy's final era. Brilliant.
When "Over the Rainbow" began to play, it transformed the United Solo Festival into more than a showcase for theatre; it became a space where stories of all kinds could be honored. Ali Harper's performance as Judy Garland reminded the audience why certain songs and lives resonate across generations. The true revelation came after the final note, when we understood how much Judy's story still matters. This production reminds us that theatre like this is not meant to be passively watched but deeply felt. It is a soul-stirring experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.
Written and Performed by Ali Harper
October 28 2025
facebook.com/aliharpernz
instagram.com/aliharper_nz
October 14 through November 23, 2025
Theatre Row (410 West 42nd Street, NYC)
Matthew is an award-winning playwright and actor! While he loves being on the stage and writing theatrical-thought-provoking-innovational plays, his passions follow him backstage as well! As a student studying business and consulting for entertainment at the School of Professional Studies, CUNY, BBA. Matthew is honored to work on this special showcase full of talent and hardworking individuals. He's selected previous theatrical experience includes Those Who Remained at La Mama E.T.C. (Producer, Props), BMCC CUNY (stage management and performance degree), The Lake (Playwright), and Earth (playwright). He is extremely grateful for the mentors and individuals, and organizations that have given him his resources and support to keep theatre alive. @matthew.d.foster
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