Sheffield

Celebrating the extraordinary talent of our students, together with the commitment of every franchisee and team member within our schools, the winner of this year’s Razzamataz Future Fund has just been announced.

The Future Fund is the franchise network’s own charity providing financial assistance to students demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication to the performing arts. It supports students entering further education in the arts, removing as much of a financial barrier as  possible. This initiative not only advances the careers of young performers but also fosters a supportive community within the Razzamataz network, encouraging a culture of mutual respect and support.

This year’s winner of the Future Fund is Lerato Thamaga, a student  from Razzamataz Mansfield, who has been offered a place on the degree course at Emil Dale Academy. Lerato was praised for his exceptional abilities in singing, dance, and acting and his overall performance together with his mature approach to his craft.

The Future Fund charity stands out because it offers students a rare opportunity to audition before a panel of industry experts. These professionals provide invaluable support and feedback, helping students refine their audition techniques and offering encouragement to advance their future careers.

This year, Razzamataz was delighted to welcome to the judging panel Johnathan Hunt, Deputy Principal at Emil Dale Academy and a professional actor, singer, director and artist with a wide range of theatre credits. Alongside Johnathan was Laurie Scarth, a professional musical theatre performer featuring in hit shows such as Grease, Hairspray, Sister Act and CATS.  

After meeting all the Razzamataz students, the judges provided individualised feedback to each one. This ensured that the audition was a positive experience and offered them valuable insights to apply to their future goals.

“Lerato’s voice has so many levels already and this will only continue to develop and become even more powerful,” says judge Laurie. “Her acting was honest, truthful and authentic and I loved the use of her own accent.”

The runners-up also received praise for their impressive talents. Dylan Rhodes from Razzamataz Carlisle has been offered a place at Rose Bruford College and was recognised for his technical prowess in dance, his natural tone and potential in singing, and the maturity and drive in his acting. Poppy Ball from Razzamataz Sheffield was noted for her energy in dance, and her acting was praised for its authenticity and use of her own accent, delivering with thought and heart. Poppy has been offered a place at Performers College.

Creating exceptional experiences for every student is at the heart of Razzamataz, whether they choose to pursue performing arts as a career or not. The confidence gained from participating in events such as the Future Fund and the support of their Razzamataz community can really impact a young person’s life as student Amy, a recent Future Fund candidate from Razzamataz Rayleigh West explains: “Just wanted to 

send a message saying thank you and to the judges the helpful and valuable feedback. This was refreshing compared to the audition seas

on when it is just a yes, no or maybe. It’s really helped solidify areas of focus as I move into training full time. Although I am leaving Razzamataz now, I’m really excited to be continuing my training. I know that without the support of my Principal and teachers, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Razzamataz will always have a special place in my heart and I thank you for this amazing opportunity.”

If you are passionate about the performing arts and are looking for a fulfilling business opportunity where you can inspire the next generation of young talent, we have opportunities for you to join our multi-award winning network.

Choreograph your future with us: train, teach, own!

Join us in London on Sunday 29th September, for a completely FREE professional development day & meet the founder and our team to talk about opportunities to train with us, teach with us, own with us! Email franchise@razzamataz.co.uk for more information as places are limited! 

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us in time for our 25th Anniversary celebrations at The Eiffel Tower, Paris next September! 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. 

The ability to adapt, recover, and thrive in the face of challenges is a skill that can significantly impact an individual’s success and well-being throughout their life. The art of resilience is not something that is inherent in every individual, but it is a skill that can be taught and nurtured in young people.

Razzamataz Theatre Schools, known for their innovative approach to performing arts education, have recognised this need to promote resilience. Through their creative teaching of performing arts, the students are given permission to try many new things, stepping out of their comfort zone but with the knowledge that they are being supported every step of the way. This nurturing approach gives children the confidence to put themselves into new situations and learn from every part of the experience, all of which builds resilience and a sense of achievement in children and young people.

The desire to continue to develop resilience in young people is what led Razzamataz to create the opportunity for students to participate in overseas residential trips, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to learn in a holistic, real-world environment. UK students have participated in educational enrichment trips to Paris, New York, London and in November this year, Dubai.

“These trips give students a unique opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and immerse themselves in new cultures, promoting open-mindedness and adaptability, which are all essential components of resilience,” says MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Gosney. “Participating in our trips also exposes students to incredible opportunities to meet inspiring individuals, something that will impact their lives for years to come, as well as creating special memories.”

In London and New York, Razzamataz students attended masterclasses with professional performers and cast members of hit West End and Broadway shows, giving them not only insight into the exciting world of theatre and the arts, but also the opportunity to learn from individuals who have outshone in their chosen field.

“Hearing the stories first hand from people who have navigated challenges and made their dreams come true by excelling as a professional performer, is not only inspiring but also provides invaluable lessons on perseverance, dedication, and passion for our students,” adds Denise. “It is in the stories of struggle where we can teach students about the power of resilience and how they already have all they need within themselves to succeed. Our mission as educators is to show students how to tap into their own resources to become well-rounded individuals able to independently take on the various challenges that life can bring.”

Combining educational overseas trips with performing arts has been a hugely successful combination and one that’s been developed over Razzamataz’s 25 year history. Students go on to achieve success in many different industries, crediting Razzamataz with many of their life skills. Lucy from Razzamataz Mansfield recently participated in the New York trip and said: “I’m training to be a nurse at the moment and Razzamataz has really helped with my confidence.”

Parents and guardians also recognise the benefits of these type of trips and the impact that they have on young lives, in both the life skills that they learn and the memories that they make as parent Kate Stark explains after her daughter returned from New York. “I can’t believe everything she has done and the things she’s seen and places she’s been in just a few days. I’m not sure how anything can possibly top this trip she’s been on and that’s thanks to you for making it happen.” Razzamataz has extensive experience in organizing large-scale events. The team frequently stages shows in London’s West End theatres and performances at Disneyland Paris. They also coordinate numerous theatre visits and various educational trips both within the UK and abroad.

Over the years, Razzamataz has honed their skills in facilitating such trips, learning the most effective ways to manage logistics, ensure participant safety, and create memorable experiences. Their expertise allows them to seamlessly coordinate travel, accommodation, and schedules, ensuring that every event runs smoothly and participants can focus on enjoying the performances, educational opportunities and have the space for their own personal development and growth.

In addition to performance opportunities, Razzamataz’s educational trips are meticulously crafted to enhance learning and create lasting memories. The team curates a diverse range of activities, from behind-the-scenes theatre tours to workshops with industry professionals, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the performing arts. These experiences are designed to inspire and motivate, fostering a lifelong love of the arts.

“We’ve been working with young people and their families for many years so understand the detail that must go into these type of trips and experiences,” explains Denise. “We partake in thorough planning and research of the destination, including understanding cultural norms and potential language barriers. We have a dedicated health and safety manager at our Head Office who will prioritise student safety with detailed emergency protocols and clear communication plans. To create special memories, we engage students with a well-structured itinerary that balances educational activities and leisure so they can learn in a fun and relaxed environment. On a trip such as this, communication is key so we build collaboration among chaperones and maintain open communication with parents throughout.”

Razzamataz Theatre Schools is delighted to be attending this year’s GESS and bringing their multi-award-winning brand to Dubai. To hear more about developing resilience in young people, Business Development Director Hayley Limpkin, will be talking about “How performing arts foster emotional and social growth in young people.” Come and meet some of the team on STAND Q33

With more than 35 years of Razzamataz Theatre Schools experience between three teachers, we have been delighted to reward their dedication to the brand with a specially designed programme to support team members with their career progression.

Amy from Razzamataz Nottingham started as a classroom assistant 13 years ago then progressed to a teacher, Lisa from Razzamataz Torbay has been teaching for the school for 10 years and Rachel from Razzamataz Mansfield has been with the school since its launch day in 2011. The three teachers have joined many other Razzamataz team members and undertook the Manager’s Training programme.

These newly appointed managers have successfully completed an intensive training programme designed to enhance their managerial skills and support the growth and development of the schools they serve.

The comprehensive training is a testament to Razzamataz’s commitment to career progression and personal development. By investing in their team members, Razzamataz ensures that their managers are well-equipped to support their Principals in scaling their businesses with advice on contracts, and the strategic side of running a business, giving them the confidence to excel in their role. This growth ultimately enables Razzamataz to reach more children across the UK, offering them the transformative benefits of performing arts education.

Having a fully trained manager in place provides franchisees with peace of mind. In the event of an accident or a need to care for a family member, franchisees can rest assured that their business is in good hands.

“This Christmas I will have been teaching at Razzamataz Torbay for ten years and I’ve loved getting to work within a creative environment, building relationships with the students and watching them develop over the years as young people and performers. The Manager’s Training was very useful as it helped me get into the mindset of the business aspect of the job, confirming some ideas of how I can support Principal India in my new role, especially while she is on her maternity leave. Now that there are two of us working together to run Razzamataz, we can focus on driving the marketing and quality control. We both bring different aspects of the arts to the table and work well together creatively; India is the vision and I’m the execution, so hopefully that will help us to continue to build on our already fun and safe environment for the children at Razzamataz Torbay. We always say we are a Razz family and that is why it has been my longest ever running job.”

Lisa, Manager at Razzamataz Torbay

“I’ve been teaching at the Nottingham school for the last 12 years. I love how inclusive and supportive the school and network is, the opportunities the children and teachers are given, for example, I got to teach in Tenerife and Cyprus for Razzamataz with TUI many years ago. These are experiences that I’ve loved so much and will always cherish the memories. I love how it covers all three disciplines in equal quantity, something I definitely wish was out there when I was younger. “I found the Manager’s Training insightful and it definitely gave me lots of useful information and also inspiration moving forward in the role. Although I have been at Razzamataz for a long time, the training clarified how I can work alongside and support Principal Claire to create an even better experience and opportunities for the children but also parents too. This will hopefully increase tasters and improve retention too.”

Amy, Manager at Razzamataz Nottingham

“I’ve been with Principal Claire and the Mansfield school since it launched back in 2011 and have loved the fantastic opportunities and experiences we can offer our students. I would describe the Manager’s Training as very informative and useful; it definitely gave me more of an insight into the “behind the scenes” running of Razzamataz. The training was very engaging and left me feeling even more inspired to get stuck into the new term, where I hope to continue to educate and inspire students of all ages across Razzamataz but with the added knowledge I have learnt about the company. I feel like with the extra knowledge I have I can continue to work with Claire to develop and grow our school even more. I feel more confident in my duties and responsibilities, which will help massively when it comes to leading my team members on a Saturday/Wednesday. Which, in time, will hopefully all have an impact on the quality of teaching we can provide students, both current and new.”

Rachel, Manager at Razzamataz Mansfield

The press can’t get enough of Michael French’s amazing story, from West End and Hollywood performer to successful theatre school Principal and business owner!

Read the full story here: https://www.thestage.co.uk/advice/meet-the-actors-starting-their-own-stage-schools.

Every day is a school day. Actor, singer and dancer Michael French’s career has encompassed performing all over the UK and overseas including the West End, working with artists such as George Michael and a recent appearance playing a Toy Company executive in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie film. The latter role might be viewed as art imitating life since, off-screen, the actor actually does play an executive role as a theatre school franchisee with Razzamataz.

“I was in my early 30s doing a show in the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. I remember looking in the mirror and thinking that my performing days were coming to an end and I didn’t have a plan moving forward. I knew a couple  of people in the Razzamataz network, and they spoke very highly of it. I also remembered seeing the founder, Denise Hutton-Gosney, on Dragons’ Den. I knew nothing about advertising, building a market, creating a customer base, retaining customers or all the other things that it takes to build a school but I was reassured that there would be people to support me through the whole journey.”

French’s school in Barnet now serves about 130 students per season, with a second in nearby Potters Bar due to open in September.

“Being my own boss means that I can decide when and how I work, which has allowed me to take advantage of incredible opportunities and continue to perform professionally, but, aside from how it fits into my lifestyle, being a franchisee is incredibly rewarding. For example, we have just finished our annual showcase and the feedback from parents has been overwhelming.

“One family got in touch to say that their daughter has been going through a very difficult time but seeing her on stage was the first time that she looked like she was back to her old self.”

This week, our Founder & MD, Denise, was interviewed by Jess Sharp for Sky News’ Money Blog!

Jess is speaking to several women who are succeeding in their respective fields and Denise was delighted to be asked about the challenges, the positive experiences and the advice I can now give other entrepreneurs.

If you think appearing on Dragons’ Den means Denise was handed success in business on a plate, you’d be very wrong.

The 51-year-old’s first memories are of sharing an “airing cupboard bedroom” as a child – and it was this childhood that instilled in her the ethos that if you want something, the answer is to work harder.

She grew up in a little town near Glasgow in a two-bedroom council flat with her mum, dad and three siblings. 

“Money was very, very, very tight,” Denise said. “I don’t remember having a TV or a wardrobe.

“We always laugh that my first bedroom until I was 10 was an airing cupboard and an airing cupboard that I shared with my sibling.

“We didn’t have a lot of money but it was a very happy childhood.” 

Denise said that back then she was quite shy.

“I didn’t enjoy school, I was bullied and I felt out of place. I just lived for dance and for performing arts. It gave me so much confidence and transformed my self belief and self-esteem,” she said. 

Years later and working as a dancer for Butlins, she took £200 and set up Razzamataz to bring the same opportunities to other children across the country. 

She was 27 at the time and already had a successful career as a dancer, performing on cruise ships around the world, in pantomimes, and on the West End. She wrote some posters and put an ad in the newspaper to get going. “I didn’t really know anything about business but honestly it didn’t cost me much. Maybe I spent a couple of hundred pounds starting the business, so that’s not bad,” she said. 

In the beginning, she would travel to a different location in Scotland every evening to host a class, but when she started “running out of days in the week” she looked at a franchising ethically. In the same year that she appeared on Dragons’ Den, Denise had two miscarriages and fell pregnant with her first son, Callum.  She actually discovered she was expecting as soon as she got back home from filming the show.  “We always laugh now that he has been on Dragons’ Den because he was in my belly,” she said. 

Referring to her failed hair and beauty business, she said that a company that’s set up without passion will not succeed. “It failed because I thought it was going to be easy… it is not easy to run a business. You have to have a lot of passion,” she said. “I’ve seen people go into business and they start getting quite bitter, counting up how many hours they’ve worked and how much money they’ve earned.” She warned that you’ll work “the hardest you have ever worked in your life for nothing” at first – but it will all pay off eventually. “You have to be patient. If you expect your business to make you a return and make you money overnight, then don’t do it, don’t run a business,” she said. 

“Nobody gave me anything on a plate. I had absolutely nothing when I started out.”

Read the full article here: https://news.sky.com/story/money-blog-consumer-skynews-latest-13040934?postid=7977776#liveblog-body

After more than twenty five years of teaching, Kathryn Whale decided that it was really now or never and took the plunge to follow her dream of running her own theatre school to inspire children with the magic of performing arts. Her story of becoming the new Principal of Razzamataz Wakefield will motivate others to follow their passion.

A bit about me

I studied drama at Reading University along with a QTS which enabled me to also become a teacher. After uni, I went to drama school and from there worked professionally as an actor on TV and in theatre. When I met my husband, we moved to Africa for a year and on returning, I had my daughter Natasha who is now 21. I’ve maintained strong links with the arts through my teaching, directing many different productions. I’ve been a teacher for 28 years and have always said at some point I would love to have my own performing arts school.

Why franchising

I’ve been talking about running my own theatre school for so long that it felt like it was just a pipeline dream. Last winter felt particularly depressing and one day when I was off work sick, I just started googling drama school franchises in Wakefield. One thing that I was sure of was that without any business experience, I really would not be able to do this alone. The thought of it was just far too overwhelming and I understood that I needed the support that the franchise system offered.

Why Razzamataz

Everything about Razzamataz really stood out to me and upon doing some research, there were things that really resonated with me. I loved reading about all the opportunities that the students can take part in; everything from performing in the West End to overseas trips to New York, Paris and now I’ve heard about Dubai. But what was the most important thing to me was the positive reviews from parents and how they spoke about how Razzamataz makes their children happy.

First steps into becoming a franchisee

I contacted the Head Office who arranged for me to attend a Discovery Den. It was basically just an initial conversation so I could find out more about Razzamataz, franchising and they could find out if I was the right fit too. I also learned that the Wakefield school was up for sale, which was ideal for me.

Any worries or concerns

I have been teaching for years and my experience in the arts meant that I was confident with the creative side of things. But I have never run a business before and I was pretty scared about how I would even start and what would be expected. But what put my mind at ease was talking to James at Head Office and finding out that many other franchisees were in the exact same position as me but are now running thriving schools. There are a lot of teachers in the network and James explained that most people start with no business experience but that is not a barrier.

Training

The training week was so detailed but it hasn’t stopped there. I’ve been in lots of contact with professionals working at Razzamataz to help me with various aspects of running a school. Everything from databases through to PR and marketing, everyone has been so professional and helpful, I’ve been so impressed. What is also reassuring is that I have a support and onboarding manager who is always at the end of an email and we have been set various home tasks which have really helped to keep me on track.

What are your work goals

In terms of the business, I aim to have a full school by Christmas and then I’ll make plans to continue to expand. I left my full time teaching job and I’m currently a supply teacher but my aim is to make Razzamataz my full time career. What has been inspiring is that many others have done this too, so there is a clear path to success to follow, which is very reassuring.

What is your mission

First and foremost is that every child that attends can have fun and take advantage of all the extra events that I will offer. I’m passionate that every child has the same opportunity to join in and no one gets left behind. I want parents to know that their children will be participating in classes where standards are high and children are learning in an inspiring environment. I love working with children and I know how much performing arts benefitted my life, so I want to pass this on to others and enjoy being in a space that is buzzing with excitement.

Fun so far

I’ve really appreciated the network and all the support that is available. There is always someone to chat to on a WhatsApp group and already it feels like a warm family environment.

Advice to others

I should have done this years ago so I would say to others, if you have a dream, then don’t put it off. I wish I had decided ten years ago to join Razzamataz but I’m excited that I’m here now and ready to get stuck in.

Words to live by

Asking for strength and guidance from a spiritual being gives me the confidence to believe in myself and follow my dreams. I practice gratitude and I believe that it has helped keep me going in life when things get tough.

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us in time for our 25th Anniversary celebrations at The Eiffel Tower, Paris next September! 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!

From a teacher in a secondary school in Gateshead, Newcastle to a multi-unit franchisee in just a few short years. Meet James Pennell-Tutill who has successfully transitioned from the education sector to the performing arts industry. Together with his wife Esme, the couple are expanding their business to multiple locations.

James and Esme have been part of the successful Dragons’ Den backed network since December 2020 and are getting set to launch their second territory in Northumberland. Their story is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in the performing arts sector. We speak to James to find out about their exciting next steps with Razzamataz Theatre Schools.

A bit about us

Esme and I both worked at Razzamataz Newcastle alongside our full time jobs. I was the head of singing and Esme the front of house manager. I was also a teacher in a secondary school teaching French, Spanish, music and performing arts and Esme was finishing her Masters in clinical phycology. We always hoped to open a theatre school together one day but the reality was the opportunity arose much sooner than we were expecting. The Principal of Razzamataz Newcastle was moving away and putting the school up for sale. I was just 22 and Esme 23 and we did question whether we were too young and inexperienced but with such an opportunity, we felt we couldn’t just walk away from it.

How to build a business

We took over in December 2020, believing that the lockdowns were behind us. Within just a few weeks, we learned we were going back into lockdown and all our classes would have to be online. It was a huge pressure because most of the staff were furloughed so I had to teach everything. We had 54 students when we took over and today we are around the 270/280 mark. Our growth has been a real team effort and we decided right from day one that we would work collaboratively, giving every individual the opportunity to offer their input, giving us different experiences and a broad sense of perspective. This inclusive approach has allowed us to innovate and adapt quickly to the evolving needs of our students and the market. It has also created a strong sense of community and belonging within our team, leading to loyalty and a fun working environment.

Why open in a second territory

We have children travelling 30 minutes or more to come to Razzamataz but not every family is able to do this. We both share Razzamataz’s commitment to bring the joy of performing arts to as many young people as possible, which is why we decided to open in Northumberland. This is a much more rural area with smaller towns and there is just not the same opportunities for children compared to big cities. So we plan on bringing the experiences to them with guest workshops and lots of chances to perform to build confidence and resilience. We are going to open a main school in Morpeth, Minis and Juniors classes in Blyth and lots of Tots classes for little ones and their parent/guardian throughout the area.

Life after teaching

There were a few reasons why I left mainstream teaching but the main one was that I couldn’t envisage my career progression. When I looked to senior staff members, there wasn’t a role that I wanted to do. I loved interacting with the kids, inspiring them to buy into a passion but this is exactly what I do at Razzamataz. It’s all the things that I loved about teaching but without the politics or the feeling that I wasn’t progressing like I wanted to.

What do you love about your job

There is always something exciting coming up at Razzamataz throughout the academic year. Although there might not be the same opportunities for young people in the North East as there is in London for example, through Razzamataz, we can use our contacts to bring them and I get to do all the fun, creative stuff that I love doing. It’s incredibly rewarding seeing the impact of the work that we do for the children and on a business level, it has given myself and Esme financial freedom. I’ve now given up teaching and work entirely for the schools and also the Head Office and Esme works with me at Razzamataz but also advises the council as an expert for children with additional needs. Razzamataz has given us control over our own financial destiny which is a great position to be in.

Goals for the new Northumberland territory

We’ve recently attended multi territory training and that has given us clear goals for what we want to achieve. We will be bringing the same high level of performing arts training but also focussed on all the additional events that go above and beyond what is expected. This can be anything from West End musical theatre workshops through to fun event for families such as the ‘Parents Do Razz’ event.

Engaging with community

As a business, we collaborate with both national and local charities. We have two students with complex medical conditions, and we asked them which charities they would like to support. Together, we raised £1,500, which was evenly split between their chosen causes. By supporting charities, our name has become synonymous with community engagement and social responsibility. This commitment not only enriches the lives of those we assist but also strengthens the bonds within our team and with the broader community. We were recently approached by Newcastle Races for the children to perform at a Family Fun Day. This was fantastic in terms of PR, showcasing to the community the opportunities we provide for children. Additionally, it was an incredible experience for the students, who got to perform on a big stage, gaining confidence and a sense of achievement.

Advice to others and overcoming challenges

We are not business people in the traditional sense. Coming from an arts and teaching background, what do we know about accountancy, marketing, HR or people development? But because this is a franchise, the systems, support and training is all in place so we have been able to scale much bigger and much faster than we ever thought we would.

I’m a much happier person since leaving teaching full time and becoming a Razzamataz Principal. You only regret the things that you don’t do, rather than what you do. Being an entrepreneur is hard work but it’s very rewarding. If you have that fire in your belly and determination then being part of the Razzamataz franchise network is a wonderful opportunity to channel your passion into a thriving business. It offers a supportive community, lots of resources, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.

Words to live by

I have a mindset that no one else is going to make things better for you, you’ve got to take control and do those things for yourself.

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us in time for our 25th Anniversary celebrations at The Eiffel Tower, Paris next September! 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!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you will be very familiar with the hit movie Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig. Alongside Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and Dua Lipa, was Michael French, franchisee of Razzamataz Barnet.

Michael has been part of the successful Dragons’ Den backed network for twelve years and is getting set to launch his second school in Potters Bar. This is his story.

A bit about me

I trained as a singer, dancer and actor and was lucky enough to work in musical theatre in the West End and perform all over the UK and overseas. I became part of the Razzamataz network in 2012 and then six years ago, I invested in a football franchise. Alongside these businesses, I continued to work professionally in the performing arts industry and I’m also a dad to my young son Miles.

Why open a second school

I’m originally from Hertfordshire so it feels great to be bringing my business to the area. Since joining Razzamataz, I’ve constantly looked to find ways of expanding but ultimately now feels like the right time because I have the support of my amazing team of teachers and team members.

Balancing roles

Running multiple businesses and being a parent means that delegation is a big part of my life. Building a team means investing in my people, creating a culture where they feel supported and can progress their careers. I’m also going to be collaborating with another Razzamataz Principal who lives locally to where my new school is in Potters Bar, which is a real testament to the franchise structure and what a supportive network we are.  

What do you love about your job

Being my own boss means that I can decide when and how I work, which has allowed me to take advantage of incredible opportunities. But aside from how it fits into my lifestyle, being a Razzamataz Principal is incredibly rewarding. We have just finished our annual showcase and the feedback from parents has been overwhelming. One family got in touch to say that their daughter has been going through a very difficult time but seeing her on stage was the first time that she looked like she was back to her old self and believe that Razzamataz has completely changed her life for the better.

Tell us about Barbie

I got a call from an agent that I hadn’t heard from in a while and my initial thought was that it was going to be some sort of animation. The original part was for a Ken type character but I laughed and explained that I was in my 40s so that was probably not right for me. The agent then got back to me with another part, as a Mattel Executive and they were looking for men who could dance in a Gene Kelly style. I’m an experienced tap dancer but hadn’t been seriously auditioning for a long time so I honestly didn’t think I stood a chance. I got down to the final audition that was held at the Warner Bros. studio and in walked Greta Gerwig, which was a big surprise. It was incredible when I was told I had the part and it really has been a career high with so many of our students loving seeing me in the role.

Goals for the new Potters Bar school

We will be bringing the same high level of performing arts education to Potters Bar, together with our supportive family environment. In Barnet, is has been wonderful to discover new talent such as Tamara Smart who has been incredibly successful as a professional actress starring in Netflix’s “A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting” and Disney’s “Artemis Fowl“, as well as BBC’s TV show “The Worst Witch“. It would be amazing to uncover more gems in Potters Bar. Ultimately though I would love for more young people to benefit from the incredible life skills that come from participating in performing arts. Whether that is building confidence, growing resilience or learning about teamwork, there are so many hidden benefits that can be gained.

Engaging with community

This is a really important part of being a Razzamataz Principal and I’m proud that we support our local PTA’s by offering various gift vouchers. We also work in collaboration with schools by teaching performing arts during any creative weeks to offer our expertise and experience in the arts. We will also be looking to get involved in local charities and support where we can.

Advice to others

In the early days, running a Razzamataz is really full on but if you take a long-term approach then you can have a successful business that gives you financial freedom and the time to pursue your other goals. I’ve used the tools that Razzamataz offers to build a business that works exactly around my needs so I can do the nursery run, go for a dog walk and do some exercise to fit my schedule entirely. It’s a bit cliché but if you do something that you are passionate about, it really doesn’t feel like a job at all.

Words to live by

Every day is a school day.

Make a difference to young lives in your community

Join us in time for our 25th Anniversary celebrations at The Eiffel Tower, Paris next September! 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!