Ray Bradshaw’s CODA at Norwich Arts Centre Review
Ray Bradshaw
Written by Eleanor for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are our own
Ray Bradshaw is a child of deaf adults, also known as a CODA, and an absolutely fantastic comedian.
Performing to a mixed audience of hearing and deaf attendees at Norwich Arts Centre, Ray is joined on stage by Shaun, his BSL interpreter. Early on, Ray introduces him and explains that the hearing audience should be watching him, while deaf audience members should focus on Shaun. However, he jokes that everyone will inevitably glance over at the interpreter whenever he swears, just to see what the signs are for the rude words. I can confirm my sign language skills have definitely improved as a result.
With just the right amount of audience interaction, including chatting to other CODAs in the audience and discovering there was even a sign language school in, Ray comes across as incredibly easygoing and naturally funny. Nothing feels forced, and he has a great way of making the audience feel comfortable and involved without putting anyone on the spot.
As someone who is hearing and does not have deaf friends or family, it was really interesting to gain an insight into the world of a CODA, especially in such a warm and humorous way. There is often a curiosity around this that can feel awkward to express, but Ray creates a space where it feels open, honest and genuinely engaging. You find yourself learning without even realising it, which makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.
The material itself is a brilliant mix of personal stories and sharp observations. From jokes about his dad mowing the lawn at 6am and calling it a “hearing people problem”, to a stag do filled with an unexpected amount of World War Two memorabilia, and not quite realising the power he had as a seven-year-old on the phone to the bank, the show offers a hilarious and often very relatable look into his life.
It is the kind of comedy that feels both personal and widely accessible. You do not need any prior understanding of deaf culture to enjoy it, but you come away with a much better appreciation of it. It is funny, thoughtful and genuinely engaging from start to finish.
Ray’s tour continues in across the UK and Ireland, with the next stop in Belfast on April 18th. For tickets, visit https://www.raybradshaw.com/dates
★★★★★
