ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book highlights the way representation of disabled characters on stage, on screen, in the media, and in museums as innocent victims of tragedy, or inspirational overcomers succeeding in spite of challenging personal problems, continues to be a problem. It illustrates how most forms of media representation emphasise the 'heroism' and 'able-bodiedness' of athletes. The book argues that a case for looking at the economics of class in the overall context of disability arts, culture, and media studies, as a clear factor in disabled people's ability to adapt cultural phenomena to make them more inclusive. It addresses the way practitioners are adapting classical Indian dance aesthetics and production practices to include performers with disabilities. The book examines responses to austerity amongst disabled performing artists, particularly in the UK and Europe, where protest against this agenda has been most extreme and immediate.
