Stand-up comedian Ray Bradshaw says his upbringing as a child of deaf adults (CODA) inspired the material for his new show, 'Coda'. The Glaswegian, who has performed with a sign language interpreter for years, shared how this small gesture can make a huge difference, allowing deaf and hearing family members to enjoy live comedy together for the first time.
The show explores long-forgotten memories from his childhood, such as having a radio in his bedroom to hear spoken language—though his deaf parents couldn't tell if it was tuned to a station. Bradshaw, who was the first professional comedian to perform a show simultaneously in English and sign language, initially avoided the topic to ensure he was established without relying on it as a gimmick.
Now touring the show, including a performance in Glasgow with his family in attendance, Bradshaw reflects on how being a CODA shaped his identity and confidence. He finds joy in seeing his own son sign and communicate with his deaf grandparents.