[#79] The Manga "Low-Warai"

A deaf protagonist meets his partner and jumps into the world of comedy.

This work is currently serialized in Kodansha's Young Magazine. The story begins when the deaf protagonist, Hirari-kun, who was looking for a part-time job using sign language to pay for college, meets his partner, Shima-kun. Although Hirari-kun cannot hear, being taken by Shima-kun into the world of comedy theaters allows him to discover the profound depth of stand-up performance.

The innovative comedic approach that turns being deaf into a strength is fascinating.

The biggest appeal of this work is, without a doubt, the perspective of "comedy that only the deaf can do." Jokes that flip the characteristics of being deaf on their head, along with interactions through sign language, create a type of laughter that has never been seen before. The journey of these two—who started as a sign language interpreter and a client—becoming a comedy duo and struggling together is filled with passionate developments that will make you want to cheer them on.

The behind-the-scenes of the creative process and specific stylistic choices are discussed in depth.

The manga touches upon how the setting of Hirari-kun being deaf intertwines with the daily lives and routines of the characters, as well as the unique illustrative techniques used. In particular, how the movements and timing of sign language are reproduced on the page is fascinating. Knowing these details will surely deepen your enjoyment of the work. The story continues to depict their growth, but please listen to the main episode for the rest of the details.