He is an inspiration for those who are diagnosed with autism later in life… Despite not being diagnosed himself… But that won’t stop him being an inspiration none the less, Ray tells us.
He fits the part, standing awkwardly in his grey suit, constantly touching his hair. His monotone voice is strangely energetic, yet the stories are drawn out. It’s a unique blend which provides a different atmosphere.
How much does a child really care about a big-name actor being in an animated film? Why does a dining table need a mat and coaster? The premise in the jokes is simple and the audience find it hilarious as he dissects the situations.
He is at his funniest when working with the crowd. Acting out when he doesn’t get the reaction he wants and not letting the audience make amends. Acknowledging how he shouldn’t have got away with the ‘risky’ abortion and 9/11 jokes which were a hit with the crowd. His interactions with the stagehand who helps him out is also very funny, leaning into his awkward persona.
He ties in all his material with a proposed silly ‘sitcom rip-off; script that he gets two members of the audience to read. It’s a very funny sketch to end on with both volunteers playing their part well. His crowd work shines here again, making sure they stay on script as they read out his wacky script.
Ray O’Leary: Laughter? I Hardly Know Her, Pleasance Courtyard (Beside), 18:05, Until Aug 24
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/ray-o-leary-laughter-i-hardly-know-her
