Nish Kumar

Best of live comedy 2016

From classy confessional comedy to superlative solo sketch work, the year was filled with a plethora of live treats.

Some pretty good standups say some quite funny things about Christmas, in a talking-heads show that covers all the obvious topics, from shopping to sprouts. The stronger performers, such as Nish Kumar, Kerry Godliman and Tom Price, can dredge up a bit of tone or timing to make obvious observations worthy of a laugh, while in this low-impact environment, James Acaster's deadpan fancy seems positively dangerous.

Live Review: Angel Comedy Club Opening Night

With Nish Kumar, Tony Law, Tom Rosenthal, Barry Ferns, Yuriko Kotani, Jamali Maddix and Jarred Christmas.

TV review: The Outcast Comic, Sky Arts

Others remember where they were when they heard that Princess Diana had died. I remember where I was when I read Andrew Lawrence's famous Facebook post about the state of modern comedy and the state of the nation in October 2014. I thought it was, erm, interesting, and messaged him quickly to ask if I could post it on beyondthejoke. I then got on a train and when I logged back on he had replied, politely saying: "Good to hear from you, but I'd rather you didn't".

The Outcast Comic review

It's a strange phenomenon of modern times that Andrew Lawrence can foster an edgy, rebellious image for adopting the exact-same reactionary tone of the government and most of the press.

Nish Kumar review

Kumar's main strength is that he is instantly likable; he builds up a good rapport with his audience. The material could come across as 'preachy' and self-righteous but Kumar manages to keep it entertaining yet provocative. This is well polished, crafted routine which ticks all the boxes for what a stand-up show should be, and is well worth a watch.

Preview: It's Not What You Know, Radio 4

Lycett says: "We had the most terrific fun recording the new series of It's Not What You Know and I personally can't wait for audiences to hear about Adrian Chiles' worrying eating habits, discover Nish Kumar's homicidal mother, and enjoy me having an argument with Vanessa Feltz."

After Brexit, the fury of the Fringe

In Edinburgh, liberal comics' contempt for the masses has been laid bare.

After Brexit, the fury of the Fringe

Five weeks before the start of the festival, comedians found all their material to be desperately, pointlessly out of date. Just as Brexit was a bloody nose to a complacent, aloof political establishment, the comedy set also got a knock this year.