Awkward Productions’ Gwyneth Goes Skiing returns to the Pleasance Theatre following cult success from Edinburgh to Utah. A riotous and irreverent take on a real-life celebrity incident that captivated the world, this production is a comedic retelling of Gwyneth Paltrow’s infamous 2016 ski collision and the ensuing court case with retired optometrist Terry Sanderson. The show is a quintessential example of Awkward Productions’ ability to transform pop culture moments into theatrical spectacles filled with humour and absurdity.
It stars Linus Karp as Gwyneth Paltrow, delivering a performance that captures the actress’s aloof persona with comedic precision. Joseph Martin plays Terry Sanderson, whose exaggerated portrayal adds to the hilarity of the drama. The production cleverly uses verbatim material from the actual trial, blending it with fictional elements to create a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Gwyneth Goes Skiing has been glammed up since its original run and the media attention it subsequently received. Leland provides original music, with vocals by Darren Criss and Cat Cohen and a video cameo by Trixie Mattel. But perhaps the real stars of the show are the audience, who are randomly selected to take on various other parts – some might find that rather daunting but Karp and Martin put everyone at ease, and the results are hilarious.
The set design is minimal yet effective, incorporating inventive props such as talking animals and puppets that enhance the show’s whimsical nature. The use of audience interaction, allowing them to decide the trial’s outcome, adds an engaging layer of unpredictability to each performance.
Awkward Productions has a knack for infusing their shows with clever pop culture references and sharp wit, and Gwyneth Goes Skiing is no exception. The writing by Karp and Martin is sharp and insightful, poking fun at celebrity culture while also exploring themes of perception and reality.
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Gwyneth Goes Skiing is a delightful blend of satire and comedy that showcases Awkward Productions’ unique style. The audience were clearly lapping up a show that has become a Gwynstant hit.
