The satirical musical I Wish You Well, currently running at the Criterion Theatre in London until 12 October 2024, has been getting a mix of praise and critique across the board. Based on the infamous 2023 ski trial of Gwyneth Paltrow, the production has embraced its campy nature, offering audiences a fun and irreverent take on courtroom drama.

Time Out gave the show 3 stars, calling it “an enjoyably ludicrous mini-musical” that thrives on its absurd humour. The review highlighted Diana Vickers’ exaggerated portrayal of Paltrow, where she captures the celebrity’s infamous coolness with lines like, “Do you smell that? That’s my vagina.” While the songs may not be particularly memorable, the witty one-liners and constant jokes ensure that the hour-long show flies by. The audience, treated as the jury, adds an interactive twist to the playful parody, with the show offering plenty of pop-culture references and campy moments that feel like an homage to Drag Race.

According to London Theatre, the show works best as a satirical romp, led by a talented cast. Marc Antolin’s portrayal of Terry, the optometrist who sues Paltrow, is a comedic standout, with his character depicted as an absurd, bumbling figure. Idriss Kargbo also shines as the flamboyant “Judge Jude.” However, while the humour lands, the review notes that the production “feels more like a quirky footnote” rather than a major West End hit, suggesting that it might feel more at home in a smaller venue.

Musicals Magazine adds that the musical, running for just 60 minutes, delivers a “madcap, laugh-a-minute” performance. The production was originally developed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival before making its way to the West End. While some critics have mentioned that the show could benefit from being fleshed out a bit more, its current form is a short, sharp burst of comedy that embraces its absurd premise.

For those looking for a fun, light-hearted night out, I Wish You Well is a perfect escape into the absurdity of celebrity trials and media frenzy. With a talented cast and quick-fire humour, it’s not Les Mis, but it’s not trying to be—it’s a celebration of pop culture satire and courtroom antics.

To experience the hilarity before it closes, you can

at BritishTheatre.com