It’s barely been a year since Awkward Productions tickled and perplexed Manchester audiences through Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story, yet this queer little theatre company is back at Hope Mill with another not-entirely-accurate story of a style icon to tell.
Adversity strikes for the otherwise carefree actress-turned-entrepreneur Gwyneth Paltrow (Linus Karp) after a ski crash with optometrist Terry Sanderson (Joseph Martin) leads to a court battle. The real-life incident occurred in 2016 but wasn’t brought to trial until 2023.
An understanding of goop-founding Gwyneth’s background helps to appreciate the humour of this part-musical, part-comedy, as references come hurtling down the Deer Valley slopes thick and fast. The script confidently covers it all, from her incalculable film appearances to that particular-smelling candle.
While other cultural nods beyond the Paltrow universe can be detected by most- Holly Willoughby, Charlie XCX and The Simpsons to name only three- the piece especially (and successfully) caters to the taste of the ‘gays and theys’ crowd it knows it draws; an appearance from drag queen Trixie Mattel impresses and delights.
The plot borders on lightweight and the second act meanders, but camp lip syncs as well as some vigorous puppetry maintain a jocular tone.
Karp triumphs in his butter-wouldn’t-melt portrayal of Gwyneth, comedically contrasting the long-suffering, jaded interpretation of Martin’s Terry Sanderson. It would be an offence not to acknowledge the hilarious sullenness of Ciara Pidgeon as she begrudgingly takes on roles of merry rabbits, squirrels and deer.
Further laughs are frequently delivered through Awkward’s trademark use of audience participation, allowing for joyfully silly interactions and ad-libs.
Grab your skis and hit the slopes: Linus and Joseph will have you gwynning from ear to ear.
Gwyneth Goes Skiing continues at Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester until 21st September with tickets available from https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/gwyneth-goes-skiing/
Reviewer: Scot Cunningham
Reviewed: 12th September 2024
North West End UK Rating: