Press clippings Page 13
Whether he's warily trying a banana for the first time, or pointing out just how many gifts are involved in the 12 Days of Christmas (who has space for 22 calling doves, let alone 40 maids a-milking and, presumably, their many cows?) every encounter with Nick Mohammed's Mr Swallow is an absolute treat. But there is something particularly special about Houdini.
Known for learning new skills for his shows, often involving magic, this musical biography of the great escapologist's life and illusions feels like a culmination of everything we've seen from Mohammed so far. Mr Swallow's usual blustering buffoonery is thrillingly undercut by genuinely brilliant tricks that he apparently can't even fathom himself ("it's magic!" he says; and then, with a wink: "oh sorry, I mean science, obviously, science.")
From the gags, which come at a pace, to the songs, to the show-stopping final escape, everything about this show is carefully engineered to delight. I was so delighted, I might just have to go again.
Anna Lowman, 22nd January 2017Sky Arts reveals 7 Valentine's comedies
Sky Arts has announced 7 romance-themed short comedies. Stars include Rosie Cavaliero, Nick Mohammed and Liam Williams.
British Comedy Guide, 20th January 2017Nick Mohammed interview
'Magic in Vegas? I'd rather write a West End musical'.
Nick Awde, The Stage, 20th January 2017Mr Swallow - Houdini, review
A cult hit from Edinburgh Fringe makes its way to London and it's split-your-sides hilarious, says Bruce Dessau.
Bruce Dessau, Evening Standard, 13th January 2017Laughing gear: the best live comedy to start 2017
Hilarity to come this year includes Bridget Christie battering Brexit, Sue Perkins' post-Bake Off trip to Leicester comedy festival and a breathtaking bout of escapology.
Brian Logan, The Guardian, 7th January 2017Review: Mr Swallow - Houdini, Soho Theatre
You'll have to see the show itself for all its daft, escapist fun, and all I'll say is that Nick Mohammed is alive and well.
Veronica Lee, The Arts Desk, 6th January 2017Bruce Dessau's top comedy gigs for 2016
Having been spoilt for choice when it came to picking TV highlights the live highlights felt thinner on the ground this year. The Edinburgh Fringe featured a lot of very good shows but few really great ones. Maybe comedians were a little knocked sideways by the Brexit vote. but two did respond well - see below. Elsewhere there were a few excellent big gigs and small gigs and it was nice to see some West End runs rather than bank raid arena one-offs. These shows are listed in absolutely no particular order.
Bruce Dessau, Beyond The Joke, 21st December 2016Brian Logan's top 10 comedy of 2016
Mr Swallow camped it up as Houdini, Isy Suttie looked for Mr Right, while Brexit brought out the angry best in Bridget Christie and Stewart Lee. Our critic picks the year's best [live] comedy.
Brian Logan, The Guardian, 13th December 2016Nick Mohammed pens children's novel
Penguin Random House Children's has acquired world rights to a children's fiction title by actor, comedian and magician Nick Mohammed.
Charlotte Eyre, The Bookseller, 24th October 2016Radio 4 to pilot Kieran Hodgson gym sitcom Sweats
Kieran Hodgson has created a new radio sitcom set in a gym. A pilot episode starring Hodgson and Nick Mohammed is due to be recorded soon.
British Comedy Guide, 18th October 2016