The former Editor of The Stage newspaper has just presented a local theatre school owner in Sheffield with two prestigious Awards. The Stage is often referred to as the performing arts industry ‘bible’ and Brian Attwood edited the publication for 20 years, stepping down last year to focus on a new project.
Brian was a guest judge and presenter at the annual Razzamataz Conference held on Monday 16th February, where he presented Helen Green, Principal of Razzamataz Sheffield with the Outstanding School Award.
Brian explained that although the judging was difficult and there was a lot of worthy competition, Razzamataz Sheffield not only showed its students’ enthusiasm and passion but also provided evidence of a clear vision and management from the Principal Helen.
“One school stood out for the way in which it demonstrated it had mastered all the elements, be it lesson planning, staff development, teaching, growing its role in the community and thoroughly understanding the value of nurturing it’s students,” explains Brian.
“It showed planning and vision that demonstrated a degree of confidence but also an awareness that even the best organisations have to deal with problems, and the trick is to prepare for them and be able to deal with them.”
Although Razzamataz Sheffield has only been established since 2012, the part-time theatre school has seen considerable growth and out of the 40 schools up and down the country, took the coveted title of Franchisee of the Year.
Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and Founder of Razzamataz congratulated Helen on her worthy win explaining: “The winner of this award has achieved an amazing 96% growth in the last year. With a hungry attitude for business and passion for wanting only the best for her students, what this person has achieved for themselves and their students in just two years is astounding. This franchisee is a true, shining example of steely determination, self-development, professionalism and integrity.”
Since opening, Razzamataz Sheffield has grown from strength to strength. Students have performed in many local charitable events as well as on London’s West End stage at Her Majesty’s theatre. Some of the youngsters are even appearing in television in adverts for the National Trust and NSPCC.
Children who attend Razzamataz Sheffield will take part in dance, drama and singing classes and experience everything from classic West End musical theatre styles to funky street dance and pop singing. Students get lots of opportunities to perform, have fun and make new friends, build on their confidence and social skills all while keeping fit and active. Classes start at age 2 and go on to 18.
“I’m overwhelmed and feel quite emotional about winning Most Outstanding School and Franchisee of the Year,” says Helen. “I’m very proud of what we have achieved in Razzamataz Sheffield in the past few years and would like to congratulate all our talented students, our wonderful team of teachers and assistants and our supportive parents. We have exciting plans in the coming months and look forward to developing more young talent in Sheffield.”
There is limited availability at Razzamataz Sheffield but to celebrate two amazing Award wins, the school is offering a FREE trial session on Saturday 14th March. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment on email sheffield@razzamataz.co.uk. Alternatively call 07979189177 or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk/schools/sheffield. Classes are every Saturday in term time at Meadowhead School, Dyche Lane, Sheffield S8 8BR.
