We take a look at what is being said about this unconventional take on classic story, starring Nick Mohammed.
Broadway World: ***** “Mohammed’s endearingly awkward performance ensures accessibility for newcomers and long-time fans alike. A Christmas Carol(ish) is a unique, inventive take on a classic – delivering festive fun with a modern twist, it’s a must-see for anyone seeking an unconventional Christmas treat.”
Everything Theatre: **** “Despite the fact the show is scripted, it teeters close to feeling like improv. At one truly madcap moment in the second half, Mary is giving birth to Jesus, whilst Mr Swallow aka Santa, aka Scrooge, is the midwife (keeping up?). The cast seem dangerously close to corpsing and I wiped tears from my eyes on many occasions, as giggles erupted around the theatre.”
The Telegraph: **** “The Ted Lasso star launches a gloriously irreverent take on Dickens’s classic, featuring slapstick, surreal comedy – and fascist reindeer.”
West End Best Friend: **** “What makes A Christmas Carol(ish) so special is that it doesn’t just rely on the well-trodden path of holiday nostalgia. Yes, the Dickensian elements are there – ghosts, redemption, a cancelled Christmas – but they’re twisted, stretched, and blown up into something entirely new. The show is packed with surprises, and just when you think you know what’s coming, Mr. Swallow throws another festive spanner in the works.”
The Review Hub: **** “The theatre world is certainly not lacking in adaptations of Dickens’ winter tale, but Mohammed manages to subvert all expectations (and most of the source material) to create something truly fresh, fun and festive with A Christmas Carol (ish). This energetic production could easily join London’s array of pantomimes as an annual Christmas tradition.”
Fairy Powered Productions: ***** “If you’re not feeling Christmasy yet, get down to @sohoplace for A Christmas Carol (ish). If this funny and festive gift of a show doesn’t warm your heart, then bah, humbug to you.”
Theatre Weekly: **** “Nick Mohammed is phenomenal, not only as his eccentric alter ego Mr. Swallow, the high-pitched showman with a northern accent inspired by his middle school English teacher, but also demonstrates exceptional physicality your barely see. To ensure that you can still have the first-hand spectacle experience, I won’t spoil it for you just yet. As Mohammed’s long-suffering partner, Elms faithfully reprises the nanny-like Mr. Goldsworth, balancing Mr Swallow’s overtly chaotic energy.”
The Spy in the Stalls: **** “The reference that springs to mind is – admirably – one of those classic Morecambe and Wise plays “what Ernie wrote” with endless mugging, undercutting, quick fire gags and bags of whimsy. Quick-witted and winning Mohammed is at the centre of it all. He brings his impish charms to what has evolved into an ambitious and glittery production that delivers more often than not.”
Lost in Theatreland: ***** “It’s another hit for a stellar team, and I think everyone should go. Not to put too fine a point on it, but it’s the best Christmas show I have ever seen! Nick Mohammed is an absolute wonder, and hurrah for Christmas-ish.”
To book tickets visit: https://sohoplace.org/shows/a-christmas-carol-ish