To mere a theatre goer like me, a court case about a skiing accident – even a showbiz one – doesn’t jump out as a must-make subject for a musical. Boy can I be wrong.
There are actually two shows about Gwyneth Paltrow’s 2016 Utah court case doing the rounds at the moment, with I Wish You Well: The Gwyneth Paltrow Ski Trial Musical heading to Norwich Theatre Playhouse for a pre-Edinburgh Festival run.
It’s smooth as freshly laid snow, and just as dazzling. From the surreal opening with a witch-like coven to the sequin-wearing splits of the trial judge, it overflows with energy and surprises.
It is witty, smart, and beautifully written – knowing it is absurd but taking itself seriously enough to deliver quality on every level.
The show’s marketing focuses on X Factor contestant Diana Vickers’ appearance as Paltrow, and she definitely delivers as the steely-cool superstar, but it’s really Tori Allen-Martin as trial lawyer Kristin that deserves most plaudits with the lion’s share of the singing and a suitably fierce voice and stage presence. She was born to wear that blue suit and wig.
Idriss Kargbo is terrifically entertaining as Judge Jude, with dance moves and costume changes that come faster than an avalanche, and the small cast is perfectly rounded off by Marc Antolin as Paltrow’s legal nemesis Terry.
Backed by a three-piece live band, they deliver Roger Dipper and Rick Pearson’s wickedly funny book and lyrics with all the slickness of a Goop jade egg.
The premise might seem as unlikely as some of Paltrow’s remedies, but this is a show that will certainly leave you feeling better. I wish it well.
- I Wish You Well: The Gwyneth Paltrow Ski Trial Musical continues at Norwich Theatre Playhouse until Sunday 28 July 2024, then Edinburgh Festival, 31 July to 26 August.
