Tonbridge

When Denise Gosney left school in the late 80s, the choices for women were somewhat limiting. She knew that she didn’t want to be trapped in an office 9-5, so she decided to follow her passion and pursue a career as a professional dancer.

“I had an amazing time, travelling the world and performing at some incredible venues but I knew that the life of a dancer is fairly short lived,”
Denise explains. “My involvement in the performing arts industry proved immensely rewarding. It not only boosted my confidence and equipped me with valuable life skills but also showed me the potential for children to experience similar growth. This realisation gave me the idea for Razzamataz, and I’ve never looked back.”

Denise opened her first Razzamataz school back in 2000 and it was the sheer popularity of the classes that led her to decide to franchise as she explains. “I basically couldn’t keep up with the demand and I also had a lot of dance friends that were asking me about how they could open their own theatre schools. The business grew very organically but it was when I went on BBC’s Dragons’ Den and Duncan Bannatyne offered me the full investment that things really went up another level.”

After the Den, Denise secured her first overseas contract with TUI, supplying performing arts teachers to various holiday resorts worldwide. The business in the UK was also growing at a steady rate, with new
schools opening every year. As the brand’s exposure increased, more opportunities presented themselves including collaborations with major household names such as The Prince’s Trust, Paramount Pictures, Mattel, Disney, Warner Bros. and 20th Century Fox to name just a few.

As Razzamataz expanded, so did the opportunities for students including multiple connections with professionals in the performing arts industry, the chance to perform in several prestigious theatres in London’s West End, overseas trips to learn from the very best of Broadway and even performing at Disneyland Paris.

 

Further accolades have come in the form of major award wins, positive press coverage from various media outlets worldwide and an expanding network of partnerships with prestigious organisations across industries.

However, the path to success is never straightforward as Denise explains:
“As a female business leader, I’ve faced my fair share of obstacles, but I’ve always seen them as opportunities for growth and change. Certainly there are challenges to navigate, barriers to breakdown and glass ceilings to smash through, but I truly believe that the life skills I learned as a performer, have equipped me with the resilience and determination needed to overcome any obstacle.”

 

One aspect that Denise is most proud of, is the flexible nature of owning a Razzamataz franchise appeals to many people, especially women who are often in a caring role at home, whether that is for their own children or adult relatives.“We have a wide range of franchisees and many of them are mums who can run very successful businesses alongside being a parent, something that is not always possible in other industries. As a business leader, my mission is to empower women to leverage their inherent strengths. We achieve this by providing comprehensive support, including tailored training, personalised mentorship, and targeted business coaching, equipping them with the tools necessary to thrive as theatre school owners.”

Looking to the future, Denise believes that we must focus our efforts on the young people of today. Razzamataz ensures this happens through its legacy of creating a registered charity called Future Fund, providing grants to students going on to study at performing arts colleges or universities. “The idea for the charity was conceived through my own lived experience of having to drop out of college because of lack of funds,” says Denise.

“Although I eventually found a way, it was heartbreaking at the time and my life could have turned out very differently. These young people really are the future female entrepreneurs; we have many former students that now teach for us as well as run their own Razzamataz franchise.” In terms of the future of the business, Denise has recently returned from another fact finding trip to Dubai as Razzamataz is one step closer to
launching internationally.

“It’s exciting to be building a brand and platform in Dubai, with Razzamataz having been invited to several educational conferences and most recently I attended the Women Leaders of the World event,” adds Denise. “Even after nearly 25 years in business, I’m still just as passionate about what Razzamataz can do for children, and this is what continues to drive me to this day. If I were to share what I’ve learnt with other female entrepreneurs, it would be that you must passionately believe in your business and the benefits that it provides. There will always be tough times but if you are unwavering in your belief, this will see you through the hard times.”

 

Article Credit: https://www.thebfa.org/

From taking your first steps walking to taking your first steps in business, Razzamataz Theatre Schools is a franchise business that nurtures growth and development every step of the way. With a unique approach that blends creativity with entrepreneurial skills, Razzamataz offers a platform for both young learners and aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive. Whether it’s fostering confidence on stage or teaching the fundamentals of business, Razzamataz empowers individuals to reach their full potential and shine in every aspect of life. Meet some of our diverse network of students and franchisees.

 

Child development

Ada was just seven weeks old when she came along to her first Tiny Tots session at Razzamataz South Lakes with mum Clare. She’s now three and progressed through to the Tots classes.

 

Clare says: “Initially we joined for the social aspect and to help create some normality and routine after the pandemic. Once I went back to work, the mam guilt kicked in as she wasn’t with me and I wasn’t giving her all my attention so it’s just something we love to do together. I love how once she’s has done a dance or something she looks for me to do a thumbs up, clap or she runs for a high five. It’s our time together in our busy life.

 

“Ada has gone from a tiny quiet baby to being up at the front singing and dancing with everyone. She loves being around all the other children and I love to see her take her little friend by the hand and try and encourage her to join in too. Ada loves to try and copy some of the older children which helps her pick up some new moves too. She has also recently started talking to Poppy and Fran (the teachers) and she loves to show them her finished crafts and tell them about what she has made.

 

“I love being part of the Razz family! I was so nervous about starting Razzamataz almost three years ago as we hadn’t been to any groups due to COVID and at the time I knew of no one that had babies at a similar time to me so starting a group on my own was a massive step. But the team, especially Asha and Amber, just made me feel so welcome and I have made a lovely little group of friends, as has Ada.”

 

Inspiring teenagers

Alice Wade joined Razzamataz when she was 9 until the age of 16. But her journey was far from over as she reached out to Principal Asha in search of an assisting job, where she found her love for teaching. She also took on the responsibility of the admin side of the business after completing work experience in July 2023. Then in September 2023, Alice became a Minis teacher at the Penrith and Appleby schools.

 

Alice says: “After taking on a teaching role just a year after joining the Razzamataz team, I was surprised by my growth and progress, as I never expected to develop so quickly. But Asha’s support and belief in me helped me on my journey. I am grateful for the experience of being a teacher, as it reminded me of my love for performing and made me more focused in pursuing my dream. In September I am going on to study for a Diploma in Performing Arts.

 

“By finding my love for performing, I was able to express myself creatively which was the unknown confidence boost I needed! Also, the constructive feedback and support from my incredible teachers over the years helped me grow and they are ultimately the reason for my overall confidence.

 

“From my own experiences, I can relate to the challenges students may face such as confidence issues and tailor my teaching approach to meet their individual needs. Also, I understand the positive impact that a supportive environment can have on students’ growth and development, both as performers and individuals.

 

“Today as a Razzamataz teacher, I strive to create a supportive and encouraging environment by creating a sense of community and celebrating each student’s progress and achievements. I encourage teamwork among students and create a safe space where newcomers can feel comfortable expressing themselves which helps them build confidence and reach their full potential both on and off stage.

 

“I would say to other young people, don’t give up. Everyone has moments of doubt, but it is so important to believe in yourself and your abilities. Also, take challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.”

 

Creating careers

There are currently many franchisees within the network that started off as either students, work experience placements, assistants or teachers. Here is just a little of what they have to say about their unique journey with Razzamataz.

 

Matty Rayson was just 16 when he joined Razzamataz on a work placement. He is now the Principal of Razzamataz West Cumbria as well as the new Operations Manager. He says: “I’m a prime example of finding my niche in performing arts even though I didn’t actually enjoy being on stage. Being part of Razzamataz really transformed my life, gave me the confidence and self-belief to discover what it was that I truly wanted to do.”

 

Jodie Hall, age 22 is the franchise owner at Razzamataz Derby. Jodie has been part of Razzamataz since she was just 13, starting out as a student, then progressing to assistant, teacher and now Principal. She says: “Razzamataz has always felt like a massive family and the commitment of building from within has given so many young people opportunities to grow successful careers. As a student, Razzamataz gave me so much confidence and opportunities that I don’t believe I would have experienced elsewhere. In fact, some of my closest friends are colleagues I work with now at Razzamataz. It’s just a lovely environment to be part of.”

 

Professional actor Ross Thompson is also the franchisee of Razzamataz Manchester South and former Razzamataz Carlisle student. He says: “I know the brand well and know what a friendly, supportive environment it is, so I was comfortable putting my name to it. I love the ethos and how community driven they are, which is very similar to my own values. Even when I was a student, I always thought that I would love to run my own theatre school but at that age, it just seemed like a pipe dream really. I knew that there would be a lot of challenges starting my own business, but after attending the Team Discovery Day in Pineapple Studios, Covent Garden, with the Razzamataz Head Office team, I discovered more about what it would take to run a school and met many Principals and heard their inspiring stories.”

 

 

 

 

Opening doors for older adults

Andrea White was 52 when she bought into the Razzamataz franchise and opened her first school in Bognor Regis in 2014. The success of the school has led her to become the franchisee of a second territory at Razzamataz Horsham.

 

Andrea says: “Having to restart my life after a divorce knowing that I wanted to do something I was passionate about, led me to look at franchises because I knew that if I was to build a school quickly, the more support I had, the better. Razzamataz showed me to be an exciting brand, willing to move with the times and make the students their priority whilst also providing support to their franchisees and that isn’t the case with all franchises.

 

“In one way, I was fearless because in my mind it HAD to work, there wasn’t an option for failure, but there was a moment before I signed the contract and I asked, what if it doesn’t work, and I was told, if you do everything you’re advised to, it WILL work. It does.

 

“When I consider the challenges, being on my own means there is no one to share all the good and the bad. Some of the schools have two Principals and I think what a great decision that is, from every angle – financially, emotionally, mentally. But flying solo is also good as there are no compromises to be made.

 

 

“Constant training and resources are always on hand and not just from Head Office but from other franchisees. Meeting up at Conference and other regional meetings is always so beneficial because you realise you have the same struggles but many different ways of tackling them. Head Office are always there to help with as much guidance and support that you might need.

 

“I don’t believe age has any restrictions when it comes to business success. In fact, with age and experience comes a calmer approach. You learn not to sweat the small stuff and there’s a lovely calm confidence that comes with age. I guess a restriction might be a lack of energy as you get older, but when you are passionate about what you do, it sees you through and also, you learn to delegate.

 

“Professionally it has introduced me to other professionals and shown me different approaches to the business. It has also proved to me what a wealth of knowledge I have and that has given me renewed confidence. Razzamataz has brought so many more people in to my life and the more people you know, with all their lovely variations, can only enrich your life, especially when it is in such a supportive and respectful group community.”

 

As Razzamataz approaches its 25^th anniversary, the franchise network is looking to further expand with dedicated investment in new territories, aiming to bring the transformative power of performing arts education to even more communities across the UK. With a proven track record of nurturing talent and fostering creativity, Razzamataz continues to be at the forefront of the industry, offering franchisees a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact while building a successful business.

 

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us NOW for a 2024 launch. Current fee is £12,995 plus VAT or ZERO upfront fee with a flat fee return, ask us about this! Every now & again we have resale opportunities, please contact us to find out more!

Training takes place regularly at the Razzamataz Head Office in the beautiful Lake District and Flagship school Razzamataz Carlisle. 

 

Choreograph your future with us: train, teach, own

Join us at Pineapple Dance Studios, London on Sunday 29th September, for a completely FREE professional development day & meet the founder & our team to talk about opportunities to train with us, teach with us, own with us!

 

Email franchise@razzamataz.co.uk by 1st July for more information as places are limited!

Providing a platform for young talent to shine while offering invaluable insights into the professional world of performing arts, a franchise theatre school network is opening doors to a world of possibilities for both students and franchisees.

 

With months of preparation, gathering the best names in the industry, on Monday 8^th April, students from 13 Razzamataz schools across the UK came together in a unique experience that combined an incredible performance opportunity in London’s West End with the chance to enjoy a day full of insight into the professional world of performing arts.

 

Razzamataz Performing Arts were thrilled to introduce the cast of The Next Step at the iconic Shaftesbury Theatre. The gala performance gave these talented young people the chance to showcase their skills across the three disciplines of dance, drama and singing as well as discovering more about their potential in the performing arts industry.

 

Aside from getting the chance to perform on a world class stage, the dedicated Razzamataz Head Office team spent many months in conversation with professional artists to lead masterclasses, talent agents to scout students for their books if they are able to take new clients and attendance from the most prestigious leading performing arts colleges including Arts Educational School London, Emil Dale, Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, Mountview and Laine Theatre Arts.

 

Prior to the evening performance, hosted by Matt Pagan, a member of Britain’s Got Talent-winning group Collabro, the students engaged in a series of workshops. These sessions not only primed them for the show but also offered invaluable insights into the realities of a performer’s life, guidance for college auditions, and a deeper insight of what their next steps could be. As a result, students not only learned the technical aspects of their craft but also gained a deeper understanding of the industry’s nuances and demands, preparing them for success both on and off the stage.

“Investing in a Razzamataz franchise means investing in more than just a business; it’s investing in the future of aspiring performers,” says Denise Gosney, MD and Founder. “By providing exceptional opportunities like this Next Steps showcase, we set our local performing arts schools apart from the competition. Our commitment to offering insights into the professional world of performing arts not only enhances the experiences of our students but also solidifies Razzamataz as a prime choice for franchisees looking to make a meaningful impact in their communities.”

 

Leaving a lasting impact on Razzamataz aspiring artists were Georgia Morgan,

direct from Moulin Rouge in the West End and Australia, actor and vocal coach Adam Pettigrew who has played many roles including Boq in Wicked (West End) and Princeton / Rod in Avenue Q (UK Tour),  West End star, vocational college tutor and world-wide competition adjudicator, Laurie Scarth and Casting Director Felicity French from Cameron Mackintosh.

 

“This was a spectacular showcase of young talent from across the UK,” says Casting Director Felicity French from Cameron Mackintosh. “Some seriously impressive performances and every single student looked like they were having the time of their lives performing on a West End stage.”

 

Razzamataz is proud to serve as a vital bridge for aspiring performers, helping make the transition from part time to full time training, and ultimately prepare them for their professional journey. Through the comprehensive curriculum and highly skilled and experienced teachers, students gain essential skills in singing, dancing and acting, while also building their confidence. The emphasis on performance opportunities and industry connections also provides valuable exposure and insights.

 

As Razzamataz approaches its 25^th anniversary, the franchise network is looking to further expand with dedicated investment in new territories, aiming to bring the transformative power of performing arts education to even more communities across the UK. With a proven track record of nurturing talent and fostering creativity, Razzamataz continues to be at the forefront of the industry, offering franchisees a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact while building a successful business.

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us NOW for a 2024 launch. Current fee is £12,995 plus VAT or ZERO upfront fee with a flat fee return, ask us about this! Every now & again we have resale opportunities, please contact us to find out more!

Training takes place regularly at the Razzamataz Head Office in the beautiful Lake District and Flagship school Razzamataz Carlisle. 

 

 

 

Choreograph your future with us: train, teach, own

Join us for our 25th Anniversary! Training is week commencing 20th May for a September 2024 launch just in time to be part of our 25th Anniversary celebrations!

Contact us on 07931 285439 to chat about opportunities with us. Book your place at our next Discovery Den: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/franchise-opps/book-discovery-den/