CripTales: Six Monologues

CripTales is a British TV drama series that portrays the experiences of disabled people in Britain over the last fifty years, challenging the view that having a disability is a problem. The series was commissioned by the BBC and broadcast on BBC Four and BBC America in 2020 to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the UK's Disability Discrimination Act.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2020
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

Over the past fifty years, Britain has witnessed a remarkable journey for disabled individuals, marked by both significant advancements and distressing setbacks. The liberation of electric wheelchairs has paved the way for greater independence and accessibility, while the pervasive discrimination and incarceration faced by this community have served as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges they endure.

CripTales, a captivating collection of six fictional monologues, delves into the diverse experiences of disabled individuals, challenging the notion that having a disability is a problem or an aberration from the norm. These powerful and humorous narratives showcase the resilience, creativity, and determination of those who navigate the complexities of life with a disability.

Commissioned by the BBC and broadcast on BBC Four and BBC America in 2020, CripTales serves as a poignant tribute to the twenty-fifth anniversary of the UK's Disability Discrimination Act, which outlawed discrimination against disabled people in various aspects of life. The production, led by Mat Fraser, the series Creative Director, aimed to bring the voices of disabled individuals to the forefront, showcasing their remarkable talents as writers, directors, and actors in all six monologues.

The term "crip," which has been embraced by the disabled community since the late 1980s, holds a profound significance in these stories. It symbolizes self-empowerment, resilience, and a collective identity that transcends individual experiences. CripTales is a testament to the authentic narratives and tales of individuals who identify as Deaf and Disabled, deeply rooted within the disabled community.

Through its powerful storytelling, CripTales offers a glimpse into the lives of disabled individuals, exploring themes such as friendship, personal assistants, navigating the benefits system, and experiencing sexual fulfillment. It challenges the societal perceptions that perpetuate disability as a burden or an obstacle to achieving normalcy. The series reminds us that "normal" does not exist, and it is through embracing diversity and recognizing the unique perspectives of disabled individuals that we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

In conclusion, CripTales is a groundbreaking series that celebrates the resilience and creativity of disabled individuals. It sheds light on the challenges they face and showcases their remarkable talents and contributions to society. By commissioning and broadcasting this series, the BBC has taken a significant step towards promoting diversity and inclusivity on television. We hope that CripTales will continue to inspire and empower disabled individuals, fostering a more inclusive and understanding world for all.

Weight: 84g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848429857