I see two sides to this argument..
First, I trained overseas as I'm from another country, and so I had training from a different background , but it was a drama school. The two types of arguments fall into arrogance and defensiveness.
I can understand why those who have trained in a drtama school may feel that everyone should, but in all honesty, I cant see the point in being arrogant and prideful, saying you did it, so others should as well. Many people cant afford it, or even have the resources. I am sceptyical about tyhe Spotlight rumours, as many professional actors who are working and are with agents will NOT be tossed off the books just cos they havent had a NCDT training. Come on guys!!! It will push down the agents income etc...
I do agree however that some form of TRAINING is necessary! I even know of people on teh West End who were trianed by oine person and have done lead roles, just cos they were right!!! How does that blow people's assumptions? Dreama school is a great opportunity and should be grabbed if one gets the opportunity, but at the same time, I cannot even see the point of assuming that just cos you went to one means you are GOOD. Training is so crucial cos you need to know basic things, but ;lets get off our high horse and assume we are all good and ahve cut the cheeses just cos we've been to drama school..your training has only BEGUN!!!! YOu have to keep it up over anf over agian. There are drama schoold where people will go through and never hear the words 'iambic pentamater' mentioned. And these drama schools may not even be serving their studenst correctly!!!!
I think its safe to say that it has its merits in many ways, but at the same time, it isnt the ultimate. IOf you have been to a drama shcool..this is wonderful and I think its great! If you havent, you may have your training thorugh many otyher ways, and tghis is great as well...
as for those who say they had to pay theor way and work nights etc..this is honourable and I respect this..but lets NOT get an assumption that others havent made some sort of sacrifice to get where they are? That is simply a bigoted attitude to have and there is enough backbiting andsuperiority in this business, and we have to help and support one another.
Many people in drama schools may do very well, and may hit it 'BIG', but there are many who havent done the drama school route, have gotten great roles and have suceeeded. There is no science to this career, and we would be better off trying to build one another up and being a community, believing the best in each other and trying to be generous instead of tearing one another down.