Theatre school welcomes new franchisees despite global pandemic

The five Razzamataz principals are ready to open their businesses following the completion of initial training online

A number of new Razzamataz franchisees are getting ready to open their own theatre schools, despite the UK being in lockdown.

And for the first time in the company’s history, Aina Gomez Piza, Danielle Campbell, Helen Mayes, Asha Richardson and Heather Hurd Sinclair completed their week-long initial training via Zoom, allowing them to learn about running a theatre school from the comfort and safety of their own home.

Like all schools across the UK, Razzamataz has been working to prepare for a COVID secure reopening when the company is permitted to do so.

Founder and managing director Denise Hutton-Gosney, along with her head office team, have been working closely with the Children’s Activities Association and other franchise networks to design a clear policy for a secure re-opening.

But for now, all Razzamataz schools have taken their high standards of performing arts training online, plus are offering multiple opportunities for students via workshops with professional performers from West End shows.

Denise says: “We’re delighted to be welcoming five new principals to our network and three brand new schools to offer even more young people opportunities to enjoy all the many benefits that performing arts can offer.

“We know there’s a lot of uncertainty in the world right now, but our core beliefs of providing a space where young people can find fun, build resilience, make new friends and improve their confidence have never changed. As well as providing excellent performing arts training, we’re sure that these key life skills are more important than ever before.”

Helen Mayes, who is the new principal of Razzamataz Wakefield, is looking forward to opening for business.

“I’m so excited to have joined the Razzamataz family and I can’t wait to bring all the opportunities that Razzamataz has to offer to the children of Wakefield and the surrounding areas,” she says.

“The training week was a fantastic experience - we covered so much. The trainers were inspirational, motivational and their enthusiasm and love of all things Razzamataz was infectious. I finished the week raring to go, filled with excitement for the future and feeling so proud to be joining the Razzamataz family.”

Razzamataz has invested thousands of pounds in creating its online platform for students, providing them with high quality, teacher-led sessions that offer continuity in their training.

It also allows principals to continue to trade, learn new skills and reach out to more young people in their communities.

“It’s been a huge team effort, but I’m so proud of how our network have pivoted their business to continue to provide families with the continuity and reassurance of participating in regular performing arts classes, where they can interact with their teachers and friends,” Denise says.

“Whether our new schools open face-to-face with social distancing or via our online platforms, I’m confident the Razzamataz brand will come out of this stronger than ever before.”