'Ted Lasso' Star's 'A Christmas Carol (ish)' Sets West End Run
Sept. 16, 2024, 8:59 a.m.
Read time estimation: 7 minutes.
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“ Ted Lasso ” star Nick Mohammed is bringing his comedy character Mr. Swallow to the West End this winter with a unique twist on a holiday classic. “ A Christmas Carol (ish) ,” written by and starring the double Emmy-nominated Mohammed, will run at @sohoplace from Nov. 16 through Dec. 31.
The production, which follows a successful development run at Soho Theatre in 2022, offers a comedic spin on Dickens’ tale. In this version, Santa cancels Christmas on Christmas Eve, prompting visits from three ghosts who must convince him to change his mind. With only hours to go and one working reindeer, the challenge to deliver everything on time ensues.
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Joining Mohammed in the cast are Kieran Hodgson (“Two Doors Down”) and David Elms (“Borderline”), with Martha Howe-Douglas (“Ghosts”) making her debut with the company.
The creative team includes director Matt Peover, Tony and Olivier-nominated set and costume designer Fly Davis, lighting designer Richard Howell, and choreographer Emily Holt. Oliver Birch provides the music, with Freddie Tapner as musical supervisor and Honor Halford-MacLeod as musical director. The band will feature members of the London Musical Theatre Orchestra. Owen Donovan produces for Berk's Nest.
The character of Mr. Swallow has gained popularity through appearances on Channel 4's “Cats Does Countdown” and Prime Video's “Backstage With Katherine Ryan.” Mr. Swallow had a sold-out national tour in 2023 with “The Very Best And Worst Of Mr. Swallow” and had a run at the Duke of York's in the West End. He will return next year with “Show Pony” – his biggest live tour yet. Mohammed is also known for his appearance on Channel 4 gameshow “Taskmaster.”
Mohammed stated: “Getting to stage an all-singing, all-dancing show like this has been a dream come true, and I can't wait for everyone who saw the development run at Soho Theatre to be pleasantly surprised by how much bigger and – mostly – more absurd it's become.”
Nica Burns of @sohoplace described the show as “Witty, inventive, funny, sometimes frivolous but always delightful,” adding, “Nick Mohammed and his talented comedic team will provide you with a memorable evening of laughter to brighten up the coldest winter days.”
Donovan added: “It’s a great honor to be working with @sohoplace, our incredibly funny ensemble cast and a superb creative team on this ‘unique’ adaptation, and we’re excited for both fans and newcomers to experience Mr. Swallow's take on this beloved holiday classic.”
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