The stage musical comedy parody of Gwyneth Paltrow’s ski trial, titled “Gwyneth Goes Skiing,” has garnered attention in both London and the United States. The musical stars theater actors Linus Karp and Joseph Martin as Paltrow and optometrist Terry Sanderson, with additional vocal tracks provided by Darren Criss and Catherine Cohen. Produced by Awkward Productions, the show has successfully completed its run in London and is set to make its way to the Edinburgh Fringe and Park City, Utah later this year.
The storyline of “Gwyneth Goes Skiing” revolves around the legal battle between Gwyneth Paltrow and optometrist Terry Sanderson after a ski slope collision in 2016. As the comical musical unfolds, audiences are taken through the events leading up to the courtroom drama that ensued seven years later in 2023. The play features a satirical take on the real-life events, highlighting the clash of two contrasting personalities – the Hollywood superstar and the retired optometrist from Utah. Through witty dialogues and musical numbers, the production aims to entertain while shedding light on the absurdity of the legal dispute.
With original music by Leland, known for his work on shows like “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” “Gwyneth Goes Skiing” promises a melodic experience for its audience. The vocal talents of Darren Criss and Catherine Cohen add an extra layer of star power to the production, enhancing the musical numbers with their pre-recorded singing. Theater actors Linus Karp and Joseph Martin embody the roles of Paltrow and Sanderson, bringing the characters to life with their performances on stage.
The real-life legal case between Gwyneth Paltrow and Terry Sanderson serves as the foundation for the musical parody. Sanderson initially sued Paltrow for $3 million, alleging that she was responsible for the collision that resulted in his injuries. However, the lawsuit was dismissed, and Sanderson later sought $300,000 in damages. Paltrow, in turn, filed a counterclaim seeking legal fees and $1 in damages, maintaining her innocence in the matter. The courtroom drama and the subsequent verdict in favor of Paltrow served as a backdrop for the musical’s narrative, adding a layer of intrigue to the fictionalized portrayal of the events.
“Gwyneth Goes Skiing” stands out as a unique and engaging musical comedy parody that blends real-life legal drama with humor and satire. With a talented cast, original music, and a captivating storyline, the production promises an entertaining experience for theatergoers. As the show prepares to make its debut at the Edinburgh Fringe and Park City, Utah, it is set to captivate audiences with its witty take on the infamous ski trial of Gwyneth Paltrow.