As a large and established theatre school franchise, we are in the privileged position of working with young people who continue to inspire us with the journeys they go on while they are with us and after they graduate.
For some children, they start their dream of becoming performers after they take their first theatre arts class and a decade later, we are in the privileged position of watching them on the West End stage. Take Robson Broad from Razzamataz Medway, he was one of our first scholarship winners with The Stage newspaper and is now part of the world-wide sensation, Hamilton.
For other children, joining their local Razzamataz school means so much more than just learning to sing, dance and act as Celia Adams, mum to Inters student Brooke who attends Razzamataz Leeds explains. “Razzamataz is quite simply the most amazing, nurturing and fun environment for children. My daughter started classes last year and the change in her has been incredible. She has gone from being a rather shy and quiet girl to confident and self-assured. It’s so much more than just a theatre school.”
This is why for 2019, Razzamataz is spreading the word that performing arts is for all children and young people and the discipline of attending weekly classes, working as a team and committing to practice will help children achieve their full potential. The message is simply: ‘From Superheroes to Superstars!’#BeSuperAtRazz.
“We want to enable each child that we teach the chance to be the superhero of their own story,” explains MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Hutton-Gosney. “For some children, that might be battling shyness or confidence issues and then having the experience of stepping onto the stage and delivering a line for the first time. For others, it might be attending weekly classes even though they have physical difficulties and for others, it might be working as a professional performer. These are all heroic acts and ones that we make sure the children know to be proud of.”
Much like the John Lewis Christmas advert that showed how a gift of a piano changed the life for Elton John, Razzamataz are now offering vouchers to gift a child the chance to join their local Razzamataz school.
“Christmas is such an exciting time for children but we know parents today are mindful about how many presents they want them to receive,” adds Denise. “A Razzamataz gift voucher is an experience present and one that could really inspire a child’s imagination and help them start their journey to be the best they can be.”
Razzamataz gift vouchers can be purchased with individual Principals at schools across the UK.
To celebrate 18 years of successful business, Razzamataz is giving more people the opportunity of joining the network with a range of special offers. To find out if franchising is the right option, Razzamataz holds regular Discovery Den days across the UK where potential franchisees get a chance to meet the Head Office team, find out more about franchising in general and discover what it is like to run a part-time theatre school.
In January 2019, there is a special opportunity to be invited to the network’s Conference in Birmingham where a group of specially invited potential franchisees will meet the MD, other school Principals and the Head Office staff.
There are currently opportunities to take over existing schools in Hackney and Reading. If you would like to find out more about becoming part of our team and attending a Discovery Den, chat to Head of Recruitment Suzie on E:suzie@razzamataz.co.uk or call 07793 054 233.
Young performers light up the Indigo at The 02
Young performers light up the Indigo at The 02
One of London’s most iconic music venues came alive with the passion of 400 young performers on Sunday 18th November with a special production from a franchise theatre school, who believes in giving its students these incredible opportunities.
The students all attend various Razzamataz Theatre Schools across the country and came together for one night to put on a gala display where they showcased their incredible talent, determination and love for the performing arts.
The children and young people all performed at the Indigo at The 02, which has a capacity of 2,800 and has many world-class musicians, comedians and performers grace its stages. The buzz leading up to the performance has been incredible and the support from the audience on the night was electrifying.
“I’m so proud of each and every student, teacher and Principal who put their heart and soul into every performance on the stage,” says Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and Founder of Razzamataz. “This night will stay with the children and families for life and we are so proud to be a part of making these magical memories.”
As a large and established franchise network, the schools are able to take part in many exciting events across the UK. As well as the Indigo at The 02, schools can take part in performing at Her Majesty’s theatre in the West End, being part of a prestigious scholarship with The Stage newspaper, many industry-led workshop with professionals such as street dance crew Diversity and West End leading lady Kerry Ellis and being part of a magical cast at Disneyland Paris.
“We have many contacts and years of experience in the performing arts industry so it is possible to put on these huge-scale events,” explains Denise. “That is one of the most significant benefits of joining a franchise rather than going it alone and has also allowed us to welcome people who don’t necessarily have a performing arts background but who do have the passion and commitment needed to work with young people and grow a business.”
Franchisees at Razzamataz include retired performers, former teachers, parents who want to work flexibly around their children and young entrepreneurs straight from college. To celebrate 18 years of successful business, Razzamataz is giving more people the opportunity of joining the network with a range of special offers. To find out if franchising is the right option, Razzamataz holds regular Discovery Den days across the UK where potential franchisees get a chance to meet the Head Office team, find out more about franchising in general and discover what it is like to run a part-time theatre school.
There are currently opportunities to take over existing schools in Hackney, Wimbledon and Reading. If you would like to find out more about becoming part of our team and attending a Discovery Den, chat to Head of Recruitment Suzie on E:suzie@razzamataz.co.uk or call 07793 054 233
Razzamataz at the Indigo at The 02
Razzamataz Mansfield
Meatloaf Rocks! Performed by Razzamataz Mansfield
What a way to open the show! With an explosion of sound and music the dancers performed tricks and flips with an easy confidence to Bat out of Hell. The legendary anthems from Meatloaf and Jim Steinman had the audience wanting to rock out in the aisles and the light and shade of the piece was revealed with stunning lead vocals and beautiful contemporary dancing during I would do anything for love. A slick and high energy production.
Razzamataz Newbury
The Best You Can Be. Performed by Razzamataz Newbury
This beautiful piece highlighted what it feels like to be a child growing up with big decisions to make. The clever storytelling and heartfelt acting captured the moment perfectly. The mixed age range of students took the audience on a journey of discovery with humorous moments such as the confident lead vocals during I wanna be a Billionaire and Jessie J’s Price Tag. Combine this with some slick and complex dance moves and the entire piece was both sensitive and polished.
Razzamataz Barnet
Ease on Down the Road. Performed by Razzamataz Barnet
Simple but effective neon glow costumes help set the stylish piece from the students that saw them tackle the cult phenomenon of The Whiz with its iconic songs which got the audience clapping along in time. Complex street dance breakout sections intermingled with the emotional and heartfelt storytelling led to a mature finished performance.
100 Years Later & We Made It. Performed by Razzamataz York
Razzamataz York
Emily Davidson was a leading suffragette whose devotion to the cause helped us to mark the 100th year anniversary of women getting the right to vote. On the stage at the 02 was one of her direct descendants, who, along with her cast mates, put on a powerful performance celebrating the female icons of today and yesteryear. The a cappella opening set the mature tone and the pop star performance was a fitting tribute to all the strong girls on the stage who combined powerful vocals with full on dance routines.
Razzamataz Durham
Rule the World. Performed by Razzamataz Durham.
The cast at Durham put on a fitting tribute to one of the UK’s most iconic pop bands. From the nineties, through to their most recent hits, the piece celebrated the best of Take That. Opening with beautiful vocals and a mesmerizing dance routine, the children filled the stage with their big ideas with renditions of Rule the World, standing up for justice with Kidz and believing in yourself with Shine.
Razz Paisley & Glasgow North
While you were Sleeping. Performed by Razzamataz Paisley and Glasgow North
This incredible performance piece was a visual delighted with complex and mature choreography. The cast took the audience on a journey into a world of dreams and through a range of dance styles, conveyed thoughts filled with excitement, sadness and even nightmares. Each step was steeped with emotion and the thought-provoking staging and soundtrack helped to narrate this beautiful piece of theatre.
Razzamataz Maidstone
Keep Calm & Carry On. Performed by Razzamataz Maidstone
This challenging and mature piece was created as a tribute to the people of Britain and the way they face adversity. The recent tragedies were sensitively explored by the young cast through song and dance and left the audience feeling that there is much hope in our children. A highly polished performance with complex choreography.
Razzamataz Medway
Queen of the Night. Performed by Razzamataz Medway
This fierce and highly polished performance was a fitting finale to the end of the first half. With a rock concert vibe, the strong, powerful vocals and harmonies were an audio delight while the complex dance routines were performed with passion and energy. A fantastic tribute to singing sensation Whitney Houston.
Off With Her Head!
Razzamataz Sheffield
Performed by Razzamataz Sheffield
Alice in Wonderland lands at the 02 but with a scary twist. The large cast didn’t put a step out of place as they took the audience on a journey to the dark side of this much-loved tale. The energetic street dance sections showcased the personality of the school and the clever staging showed how using small movements was a very effective way to tell a story. Finishing with a powerful vocal performance that highlighted every cast member, the overall performance was slick and professional.
Razz Rickmansworth
Razz Runs the World – a Tribute to Beyonce. Performed by Razzamataz Rickmansworth
This young and energetic cast brought out their sassiest dance moves to pay homage to the international artist, Beyonce. The addition of microphones on stage gave the piece a rock concert feel, totally fitting for the venue. The piece showed off the cast’s maturity with the transition from high energy pop to standing still to sing followed by a beautiful lyrical dance piece.
From Time to Time.
Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield
Performed by Razzamataz Sutton Coldfield
The young cast might not have even been born when these songs were a hit, but they certainly know how to make them relevant again. The time hop performance featured songs from the year 2000 to the year 2018. This medley of pop songs featured confident vocals combined with complex dance routines and a generous splash of fun and laughter.
Razz Edinburgh & Glasgow South
Dead Man’s Chest. Performed by Razzamataz Edinburgh and Glasgow South
Swash buckling pirates and underwater sea creatures took the audience on an adventure of a lifetime to see who will win the fight of the sea. Emotive dance routines featuring the genres of street dance and lyrical combined with a mature vocal performance was a masterclass in storytelling.
Bruno Mars Medley.
Razzamataz Weymouth
Performed by Razzamataz Weymouth
From the opening Bboy moves, it was clear that this performance was going to take the roof off the 02! Very cool and complex choreography paid homage to Bruno Mars, one of the biggest music artists of all time. This fun and oh so very slick performance was the coolest party on stage and every single member of the cast performed their socks off.
Razz Newcastle
Razz Army Rocks. Performed by Razzamataz Newcastle
A mash up of army themed songs that took the audience on an emotional journey where the youngsters showed us fear, strength and commitment. Beautiful and powerful solo vocal to open the piece and set the story and clean lines and effective choreography to show the dancers’ skill. A wonderful piece showcasing the talent at Newcastle.
Razzamataz Derby
Disturbed Shadows. Performed by Razzamataz Derby
Each performer took full command of the stage and fully embraced the theme of the reincarnation of some twisted diva souls. Opening up with three lead vocalists and leading in to a sharp and fierce dance section, the cast kept in character through every step of the performance, which finished with a homage to the iconic Thriller.
Razzamataz Carlisle
Our Shot! Performed by Razzamataz Carlisle
An ambitious mash up of the smash hit musical Hamilton. This incredible piece challenged the students with every moment from the complex dance routines through to the tricky rap sections. All elements were delivered with passion, energy and maturity well beyond their years. A powerful and uplifting finale to a wonderful debut performance at the 02.
Razzamataz students head to London for The Stage photoshoot
Franchise theatre school students head to London for photoshoot
A group of talented young performers from across the UK are travelling to London on the 15th November to one of the most prestigious performing arts publications in the UK. The youngsters are all students at Razzamataz Theatre Schools and will be participating in an exciting photoshoot to feature in The Stage newspaper’s prestigious Christmas double-issue.
The photoshoot will bring together everyone who was lucky enough to win The Stage Scholarship this year. The three students have been chosen from Razzamataz Medway, Razzamataz Sheffield and Razzamataz Newbury, and they will be representing the dozens of other Razzamataz students who were also awarded a scholarship with The Stage.
The event is a great opportunity and a hugely fun day for all. The shoot will take place at the Stockwell Playhouse and students will meet The Stage photographer Alex Brenner and Phil Matthews who will be present to digitally record the day so students can tell The Stage about their training, their goals and dreams for the future and how they feel about winning the scholarship.
To enter the scholarship competition, the participants were asked to film a short demo of no more than two minutes long showing them performing either a musical theatre song and dance, street dance, pop song, drama improvisation or scripted drama piece. The demo did not have to be professionally filmed. Candidates also completed a short application form detailing why they wanted to take this opportunity.
Poppy Bowness, age 17 was the winner for Razzamataz Newbury. Her Principal Debbi Ledwith says her mature audition impressed the judges: “The judges felt that her audition video demonstrated a really confident and comfortable delivery. She had obviously considered her audience and how she was going to communicate with them and there was a strong sense of storytelling through song.“ Poppy is a loyal and helpful student as Debbi continues: “She worked with us as a support assistant on Summer School, has done some volunteer work in our Minis classes and she is very good at attending outside performance events. She really is a deserving winner and is so over the moon to have been given the opportunity to take part in the photoshoot.”
Eloise Kemlo, Razzamataz Medway
The feedback from the judges who awarded Eloise Kemlo, age 15 from Razzamataz Medway a scholarship was equally as exciting. “We thought the tone in your voice throughout the piece was beautiful and individual. We smiled the whole way through listening to your performance and loved the story telling through your voice and in your lifted eye line and open posture. The vocal journey through this piece was well structured and we loved how it continued to grow to the very end. We are so very excited by your voice and potential that we hope will continue to grow throughout your training.”
Madeleine Ainscough, age 14 from Razzamataz Sheffield will join the other students in London having been awarded a scholarship thanks to her winning vocals. Her Principal Helen Bell says: “Madeleine won due to a mature performance well beyond her years and showing a real understanding of the song’s context. Her vocals were beautiful and her natural affinity for acting shone through in her interpretation of the song.”
The scholarships have been created to give more children the opportunity to participate in the performing arts and are part of Razzamataz’s dedication to make performance training accessible to young people all over the country.
The scholarships are available to current students and those that do not attend the part-time theatre school. The judges are looking for potential, so even if the children have never had any professional training before, there is a chance that they will be chosen if they have raw talent.
Madeleine Ainscough, Razzamataz Sheffield
MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Hutton-Gosney explains: “It has been a privilege to work with The Stage for the last seven years and during this time we have offered thousands of pounds worth of training for children to attend performing arts classes at their local Razzamataz school.”
The industry contacts that Razzamataz have allow many different people to join the franchise network. Franchisees include retired performers, former teachers, parents who want to work flexibly around their children and young entrepreneurs straight from college. The Stage scholarships are back again for 2019 and Razzamataz is already looking forward to participating.
To celebrate 18 years of successful business, Razzamataz is giving more people the opportunity of joining the network with a range of special offers. To find out if franchising is the right option, Razzamataz holds regular Discovery Den days across the UK where potential franchisees get a chance to meet the Head Office team, find out more about franchising in general and discover what it is like to run a part-time theatre school.
There are currently opportunities to take over existing schools in both Hackney, Wimbledon and Reading. If you would like to find out more about becoming part of our team and attending a Discovery Den, chat to Head of Recruitment Suzie on E:suzie@razzamataz.co.uk or call 07793 054 233.
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This is why for 2019, Razzamataz is spreading the word that performing arts is for all children and young people and the discipline of attending weekly classes, working as a team and committing to practice will help children achieve their full potential. The message is simply: ‘From Superheroes to Superstars!’ #BeSuperAtRazz.
“Christmas is such an exciting time for children but we know parents today are mindful about how many presents they want them to receive,” adds Denise. “A Razzamataz gift voucher is an experience present and one that could really inspire a child’s imagination and help them start their journey to be the best they can be.”
The event is a great opportunity and a hugely fun day for all. The shoot will take place at the Stockwell Playhouse and students will meet The Stage photographer Alex Brenner and Phil Matthews who will be present to digitally record the day so students can tell The Stage about their training, their goals and dreams for the future and how they feel about winning the scholarship.
