Extraordinary show that strikes the perfect balance between performance and personal reflections.
We’re in an intimate space just off the seafront in Brighton for a quick catch-up in Dad’s shed. With a golden-crested-chaffinch twittering in the background, stylish gilet on-hand, and supersized cuppa, complete in a ‘favourite farter’ mug, all must be well. Unfortunately, poor Dad has to put up with ungrateful, ‘woke’ and wayward children – sometimes known as ‘the audience’. But he’s not going to let that ruin his day.
Dad Jokes is a lovingly ludicrous portrayal of a parent struggling with the gender identity and sexual orientation of their grown-up child. Described by the artist as a ‘queer re-parenting extravaganza’, the show delivers on this promise in solid gold spades. From transforming toxic opinions, to a cathartic Viking burial of the sides of Dad we’d decidedly rather avoid. The narrative and pace of this show are perfection, with each moment that follows the last hitting exactly the right note. Their choices about when to delve into the personal are poignant, delicately timed and emotive.
Hodd’s characterisation is also precisely on-point, portraying each person with true-to-life familiarity and humour. From Big Dad Energy, to an unexpected appearance from Mum, forewarned from the back of the tent. This character gives vibes of Diana after a little too much champagne, and a sulky self-absorption that puts boomer mums across the country to shame. The devil is in the detail – a little toe emerging pseudo-seductively from outside a safely high-heeled shoe has one audience member exclaiming in delight.
When it comes to the audience, Hodd has a handle on things in a way that many performers could learn from. There’s someone who has the potential to be tricky in the front row, and Hodd handles this like a professional. They know the power of the pause, and how a simple gesture like a true-to-character thumbs-up can give time and space. When the audience give answers they don’t want, it’s handled with unexpected humour that is just heaven to watch. Is there anything Hodd can’t do?
A bit where Dad does stand-up goes on a little too long and doesn’t hit home quite as much as the rest of the show. But this is an incredibly minor quibble in a show that is original, inspiring and leaves you feeling uplifted. Delivering a show with a message that manages to be incredibly funny too is a tall order, but Hodd matches this challenge, and more. A must-see blend of clowning, musical comedy and divine drag king antics with real heart. Don’t miss this.
Reviewed on 21 May 2025. Runs until 22 May.
