Making memories and inspiring futures
Being part of a national theatre school franchise, the people working within it acknowledge it is a privilege to be part of the lives of children and their families. Principals of schools across the UK get the opportunity to help shape the future and leave a lasting legacy.
When students come to one of the Razzamataz Theatre Schools, they truly become part of our Razz Family. It is not just about the singing, dancing and drama lessons, it is all the wonderful events that they can take part in which helps to make memories, inspire futures and make lifelong friends.
As the Dragons’ Den backed franchise celebrates 20 years of business in January 2020, thoughts turn to some of the incredible opportunities that have happened thanks to the dedication of a truly wonderful team of theatre school franchisees. These opportunities change the course of a life for a young person and we are now seeing former students gracing the West End stage in shows such as Hamilton, working in TV and films and being part of national radio networks. There are also many who have gone on to have careers in teaching, the NHS and law who look back on their time at Razzamataz with very fond memories.
Hollie Ghorst, age 22, is just one example of a student whose life has taken on a different path, thanks to attending Razzamataz. Hollie joined up as a Junior student at Razzamataz Carlisle, now she is a teacher at three Razzamataz schools; Dumfries, Carlisle and Penrith.
“My time at Razzamataz has been the best experience I could have had, right from Juniors through to Seniors,” says Hollie. “I use the skills that I have gained through Razzamataz and all the opportunities given to me over the years. These include performing at Her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End, masterclasses with street dance crew Diversity, workshops and even performing at Disneyland Paris. I love teaching our little budding stars and help them to express their enjoyment for performance. I tell the children that I started at their age and it was the best opportunity to make so many friends which today are more like family.”
Sending a child to a theatre school offers a whole heap of benefits that often can’t be gained anywhere else. Speaking to some of our parents in our Razzamataz schools, we have come to the conclusion that parents don’t pay for their child to learn performing arts, they do it for the chance for them to learn invaluable life skills and grow in confidence.
“Razzamataz gave me so much confidence in all aspects, it helped me gain my job as a senior teaching assistant helping children and pushing them to achieve their best,” adds Hollie. “Razzamataz brings so much joy to so many people’s lives and I myself have a lot to thank it for.”
MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Hutton-Gosney explains: “Children gain a wealth of attributes by engaging in performing arts lessons. The best thing is that they don’t even realise they are acquiring these important life skills. They are learning to take care of their bodies, respect friendships and set goals for themselves. Our sessions take place in a fun, safe environment, where each and every child is encouraged to express themselves and to be the best that they can be. We don’t put limits on anyone, whatever their skill set or background we help them to make memories and inspire their future.”
#MakingMemories……InspiringFutures!
Razzamataz is particularly keen to recruit new franchisees in Scotland; specifically, Dundee and Aberdeen and Wales; specifically, in Cardiff and Swansea and we have a resale opportunity in Hackney and Paisley. School Principals do not need experience in the performing arts, just a passion to work with children and young people.