Discuss the representational issues surrounding “Glee” and disability.

The representation of disability has become accustom to television programs in recent years showing the aspect of physical and mental disabilities has changed the perspectives on many in how we view those who for instance suffer from a condition or disability. Often the use of disabled characters feature on television channels such the; “BBC” and “Channel 4”. A show which has recently featured on the channel “E4” (a sub-channel of “Channel 4”) is that being of the U.S drama “Glee”.

In “Glee” a disabled character (‘Artie’) is shown in many different lights. The uses of many techniques represent disability in many ways through the use of camera work and lighting. For instance in the one of the clips, disability is made out to be a negative thing. The use of long shots shows the characters isolation from the real, able world, again the idea of isolation is furthermore seen by the audience when the character is shown alone in the spotlight. However the use of shining bright light, down the corridor connotes a happier aspect to disability, as the light grows brighter which could connote the characters happiness and also his hope.

Despite showing disability in different lights, “E4” has come under scrutiny from the audience of “Glee”, (mainly from the disabled personal of the audience majority). Many viewers have complained about how it represents being disabled, predominately as a bad thing rather than what it is good. Many of the audience have also complained at the irony of how a non-disabled actor is used to play the role of a person in a wheelchair. Many complained at how this actor was unable to play the role of a ‘cripple’ seeing as he had not suffered from a situation that could render him disabled. In a way it is seen as unjust for an able-bodied character to play the role a disabled person. On social websites, the show “glee” has been accused of ‘Crip-Drag’ on a numerous count of times.

Of course however the producers of shows such as “Glee” may argue the fact of it being easier to employs a non-disabled actor to play the role as they will be able to shoot scenes at certain times, which may not be the case for a disabled person. The idea of the disabled actor’s welfare may be another reason for employing an able-bodied actor in the role in case the disabled actor was to be taken ill or suffer worse from their condition. The possibility of equipment may also affect the wellbeing of the character. Stray wires pose a risk to anyone those able-bodied or not. It could also be differcult for instance if the disabled actor was in a wheelchair, navigating around the equipment would be dangerous.