Although they have not made it an especially big deal, some conservative Americans object to the Fox program Glee because it is a politically correct extravaganza that often deals with sexuality among teenagers. This season actress Gwyneth Paltrow provided some sizzle that awakened any parent in the room, I'll tell you that.
But there is an important social upside to the show. Gays, physically challenged people, and overweight kids are all put in a positive light compatible with the show's liberal tone. An occasional verbal shot at Fox News solidifies Glee's PC presentation.
The other day on Long Island, a live Glee concert troupe sold out two shows at the Nassau Coliseum, grossing more than two million dollars in the process. The crowd was predominately white, middle class teens, many accompanied by their parents who seemed to enjoy the presentation. This was a rather staid event compared to Lady Gaga or your standard-issue rapper. No profanity, songs with lyrics you could understand, and dancing without much groin activity.
In other words, the Glee concert was clean-cut, and the young people loved it.
The trendiness that Glee embraces on the tube doesn't much bother me, and I like the fact that chubby performers are often front and center. Also, the kid in the wheelchair sings great, and his presence sends an anti-stigma message as well. So, there is much good in the program.
At this point in America, young people are being barraged with tattooed vulgarians who dominate the rock and reality show world. The kids see anti-social behavior, hear poor grammar, and understand that crude conduct is often rewarded with fame and fortune. You don't have to go to the Jersey Shore; just arrive at your local beach or pool this summer, and you'll see young boys and girls with body ink and piercings all over the place. Do these children not have parents? Are their no mirrors in their homes?
The Glee crew is basically clean cut, and do you know what? It's refreshing. That's right, it's nice to see some young Americans on stage who don't look like living dead zombies or Charles Manson. I'm not asking for a comeback from the Kingston Trio or an Up With People convention, I'm just promoting equal time as far as grooming is concerned.
Also, the PC stuff on Glee is in context. It doesn't slap you in the face, like the faux trendy garbage you see on the nightly news, for example.
In person, the Glee kids perform well and seem pleased to be entertaining people. Their songs are upbeat, the primary message is "don't hurt anybody," and the performers give you your money's worth.
Yeah, it's positively gleeful. And I'm happy about it.
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