REVIEW: Gwyneth Goes Skiing

As the lights came up at the interval of Gwyneth Goes Skiing, my seat-mate chuckled, “I don’t know what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this”, If you’ve never attended an Awkward Productions show, brace yourself for their unique brand of off-the-wall, wacky, camp comedy that has quickly garnered a devoted fanbase. The first run of Gwyneth Goes Skiing at Pleasance Theatre, London, last year sold out entirely, prompting an immediate return for this second run.

Loosely inspired by a celebrity trial that captivated audiences a few years ago, the play recounts the lawsuit filed by retired optometrist Terry Sanderson against Oscar-winning actress and lifestyle influencer Gwyneth Paltrow. He sought $300,000, claiming Paltrow caused a skiing accident in 2016, leaving him with broken ribs and severe brain injuries. Paltrow, asserted that Sanderson (repeatedly referred to as a “sad old man” in this production) crashed into her at the Deer Valley resort, causing her to lose “half a day of skiing.”

This production has its tongue firmly in its cheek as it cleverly pokes fun at the absurdity of the case. Linus Karp portrays a classy, soft-spoken Gwyneth Paltrow with his own unique understated comedic style.  Joseph Martin masterfully multi-roles as the gruff Sanderson and his inept lawyer Kristen Van Orman. Martin’s comedic patter song as the lawyer stands out as a musical highlight in this play with songs. The stage managers work as puppeteer for various characters, including Gwyneth’s daughter Apple and assorted woodland animals, adds delightful moments.

Act One imagines Paltrow and Sanderson having a chance encounter prior to the accident on the slopes, with lots of foreshadowing for the drama to come, some excellent pop culture references and impeccable physical comedy that sets us firmly in the world of camp clowning. However, Act Two’s courtroom scenes are where the laughs come thick and fast. It is said that truth is often stranger than fiction, and whilst the piece is packed with jokes, song and movie references, puns, and one liners, the writing duo take pains to remind us that much of the hilariously ridiculous court scenes are shockingly close to verbatim. 

In the real-life court case, Paltrow emerged victorious, receiving a symbolic $1 in damages. However, this re-imagining allows the audience to become the jury once more, promising different endings based on audience votes. Whilst it would seem very sad not to see a triumphant Gwyneth whisper her famous parting words to Sanderson (no spoilers) I was sad not to know what would have happened if Terry had won the day. I guess I’ll just have to go again! Gwyneth Goes Skiing plays at the Pleasance until Feb 16^th. Catch it if you can!