The Guardian view on Adolescence cleaning up at the Emmys: the importance of grassroots drama training | Editorial

The Guardian view on Adolescence cleaning up at the Emmys: the importance of grassroots drama training | Editorial

The explosive popularity of the show “Adolescence” has not only shed light on pressing social issues such as online misogyny and radicalization but has also brought attention to the significance of grassroots drama schools and clubs, as well as representation of working-class individuals on television.

A milestone was reached last Sunday when 15-year-old Owen Cooper made history by becoming the youngest male actor to win an Emmy for his role as Jamie Miller, a teenage murder suspect in “Adolescence.” The founders of Drama MOB in Manchester, where Cooper honed his skills during weekly classes, emphasized the pivotal role the training played in his success. This acknowledgment was further reiterated by Cooper during his acceptance speech.

The narrative of achieving success from humble beginnings was challenged by the Drama MOB founders, who praised the efforts of teachers in community halls across the nation. They highlighted how renowned actors like Julie Walters and Stephen Graham, who are also alumni of similar drama schools, started their journey in such unassuming settings. The struggles faced by working-class actors in today’s industry were underscored by Julie Walters, emphasizing the stark contrasts from previous years.

The landscape of drama schools in the UK is currently in turmoil, with establishments like Bristol Old Vic Theatre School facing financial crises and closure. The decline in the number of students pursuing drama at GCSE and A-levels since 2010 has further compounded the challenges faced by aspiring actors. As private education continues to dominate influential job sectors, working-class dramas like “Mr. Bates vs the Post Office” and “I May Destroy You” serve as vital representations of authentic voices and narratives that must not be overshadowed

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