As the festive season approaches, children across the UK are getting their moment in the spotlight thanks to a theatre school franchise. Students who attend Razzamataz Theatre Schools will get to celebrate their achievements over the year in front of family and friends in either a ‘watching week’ or a Christmas performance.
The annual event combines the opportunity to perform with a chance for the principals and teachers to celebrate the achievements of every student. A big part of the Razzamataz ethos is to acknowledge the success of every child. From those who aced big auditions to win parts in major theatre shows or on TV to those who have overcome shyness and for the first time were able to stand up in school and confidently say their lines in a class play.
“Many of our schools will give out awards,” explains Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and Founder of Razzamataz. “When we created the awards, it was important that each child had a chance of winning one so rather than focusing on just the most able students, the awards look at various areas such as ‘most improved’, ‘best attitude’ and ‘committed attendance.’ We believe that performing arts is beneficial to every child and not just those that want to perform professionally. It teaches the importance of teamwork, punctuality and brings out the individual’s creativity, all massively important in whatever direction a student goes on to take.”
Many of the schools also put on a party for family and friends to allow everyone the opportunity to socialise at this festive time. “It’s important for us to create a ‘Razz Family’ with all of our schools and for them to do the same for their students and families,” adds Denise. “We have had students grow up with us, many have gone on to work for us as teachers and we even have a Principal who started with us when she was just 11.”
As well as the Christmas celebrations, many of the schools have got involved with their local communities, helping to raise money and spread festive cheer. Schools up and down the country have been performing during Lights Switch On’s, singing Christmas carols and helping to pack bags in supermarkets to support local charities.
“I’m incredibly proud of all of our students, staff and Principals for the amazing work they do in their communities,” adds Denise. “It’s also a great lesson to teach children and we know they get a real sense of achievement by helping others.”
As the year draws to a close, the schools will also be reflecting on their own achievements this year. Many amazing memories have been made from performing at Disneyland® Paris through to guest workshops with street dancers Diversity, Future Fund auditions at Pineapple dance studios, a summer of fun at Eurocamp in France, performing with Collabro, summer showcases and watching students perform in the West End and on major TV shows to name just a few.
“It has been an incredible year for us in Head Office and all of our schools,” adds Denise. “We’ve got even more planned for next year including our first performance at the Indigo 02, more industry workshops and even more opportunities for our students and principals.”
Razzamataz offers a wide range of performing arts styles for youngsters age 4-18 including current trends that are accessible to children and teenagers. Classes consist of dance, drama and singing and the curriculum covers the whole of the performing arts, from classic West End musical theatre to street dance, pop singing and acting for camera. Some of the schools also offer classes for 2-3 year olds as part of our Razz Tots programme.
