Tasha Low and Chantalle Ng Portray Wheelchair-Bound Characters in New Drama 'Hope Afloat'
Rising local actresses Tasha Low and Chantalle Ng are set to bring greater representation of people with disabilities to the small screen through their roles in the upcoming Mediacorp drama Hope Afloat. The series aims to portray individuals with disabilities sensitively and authentically.
In Hope Afloat, dancer Xilin, played by Low, becomes paralysed from the waist down after an accident. She finds encouragement and support from para swimmer Tianqing, portrayed by Ng. The narrative follows Xilin as she regains the courage to pursue her new life journey, with Tianqing’s help. Over time, the two characters develop a strong sisterly bond as they face various life challenges together, including navigating relationships with their love interests, played by Zhang Zetong and Tyler Ten.
The show will be available on meWATCH starting July 29, and will premiere on Channel 8 on July 30, airing on weekdays at 9 pm.
During a media conference at Mediacorp Campus on July 15, Low, 30, shared her insights on portraying a person with a disability for the first time since starting her acting career in 2020. She highlighted the importance of understanding that people with disabilities have dreams and aspirations just like everyone else. Low's previous works include Jack Neo’s period film The Diam Diam Era (2020), and dramas such as Silent Walls (2023) and Oppa, Saranghae! (2023).
To prepare for her role, Low referenced video interviews with a real-life dancer from China who had lost the ability to walk due to an accident. One significant challenge she faced was accurately depicting swimming scenes without using her legs, as even the tiniest leg movements could be captured by the camera.
Ng, who plays an athlete with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a group of inherited disorders that cause nerve damage leading to muscle weakness and numbness in the legs, consulted Singaporean Paralympic swimmer Yip Pin Xiu, 32, who has the same condition. Ng's commitment to her role reflects the dedication of both actresses to portray their characters authentically and respectfully.
Hope Afloat promises to be a heartfelt drama that highlights the resilience and strength of individuals with disabilities, aiming to foster greater understanding and representation on screen.
