Gwyneth's first night success

Gwyneth Paltrow celebrated the first public performance of her new play Proof with a party at No 1 the Aldwych.

She was joined by director John Madden and actor Ronald Pickup after the performance at the Donmar Warehouse.

The Oscar-winning actress is said to have been encouraged to take the part by both the Donmar's director, Sam Mendes, and her friend Madonna, who is also appearing on the West End stage, in Up For Grabs at the Wyndham's.

Ms Paltrow, 29, who is receiving around £350 a week for her role, is thought to be extending her stay in Britain.

She has agreed to appear as Sylvia Plath in a film about the suicidal poet and her tortured relationship with Ted Hughes. The movie is being backed by BBC Films and producers Ruby Films.

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