Over the years franchising has evolved to be more widely understood by the public. Although it came to the UK during the 1950s and achieved significant growth in the 1980s and 90s, very few people properly understood it. Today, more than 44,000 people own a franchise in the UK and many of the outdated myths have been dispelled because of the higher rates of success in franchising than independent business. One such franchise that takes ethical and sustainable franchising seriously is Razzamataz Theatre Schools,
Celebrating longevity
A true marker of sustainability within any franchise network is the number of franchisees who choose to stay year after year. Many franchisees have been part of the Razzamataz network for five, ten, or even fifteen years, demonstrating how well the business adapts to different life stages, from new parents seeking flexibility, to experienced entrepreneurs looking for a scalable, rewarding venture. Renewals are a sign that franchisees feel supported, valued, and confident in their future with the brand.
Evolving over the years
Although Razzamataz is celebrating 25 years of success, it continually evolves to stay ahead of trends, ensuring franchisees have access to the latest developments in marketing, business, and performing arts training. From innovative digital marketing strategies to cutting-edge performance techniques, the network equips franchisees with tools that keep their schools competitive and relevant. This commitment to continuous improvement and staying current is one of the many reasons franchisees choose to remain within the Razzamataz family, confident that they are part of a forward-thinking, future-ready business.
A unique approach
Razzamataz is unique from many other theatre schools by viewing performing arts not just as a path to performance careers, but as a platform to build community and confidence in every child. Every school and Principal is committed to supporting every student, whether their goal is to perform professionally or simply to grow, make friends, and develop life skills. As Charlotte, Principal of Razzamataz Maidstone for 10 years, shares: “A decade as Principal at Razzamataz Maidstone has been an honour. Together with my incredible team, we’ve built a school that is more than a place to perform, it’s a community where young people feel seen, valued, and empowered. I’m so proud of every one of our students and team members, witnessing their growth and development each week is what truly lights me up.”
This sentiment is shared by Michaela who has been the Principal of Razzamataz Bristol North since 2020: “I’ve loved every moment and it’s gone by so fast. Up there with my best times have been watching my students perform at Disneyland Paris. Seeing them all come together as one family was incredibly special, a real lump in the throat moment.”
Creating incredible opportunities
Razzamataz doesn’t just provide exceptional experiences for students, it also empowers Principals and their teams to offer these remarkable opportunities to their families. From giving students the chance to perform on iconic stages such as the West End, London’s O2, and Disneyland Paris, to opening doors through exciting partnerships with world-renowned brands including Mattel, Warner Bros, and Universal Pictures, the network ensures every school can bring unforgettable moments to life. Principals also support incredible scholarship opportunities, enriching the lives of young people in their communities.
Nick and Gemma, Principals at Sutton Coldfield were among the youngest franchisees to join the network ten years ago. Today, they are widely respected in their local area for the opportunities and support they offer to young people and are also parents to their young daughter: “The moment the curtain came up for our first ever show in 2016 and then the same, when it rose again this June for our ten year anniversary show, were really pivotal moments for us and ones that stand out amongst all the many things that we have achieved as a team.”
A parent’s perspective
Debbi, a former school teacher and now the Principal at Razzamataz Newbury, is celebrating her 10 years anniversary and has the unique perspective of seeing the impact that Razzamataz has from a parent’s viewpoint, as two of her children have performed with her school in the West End.
“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years,” she explains. “One of my standout memories has to be our performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre in 2019. We performed a selection of songs from Matilda, and it was wonderful to see so many of our younger students take part. Everyone gave their absolute best, and we were incredibly proud of them. As a parent of two children in the cast, I got to experience it both from the audience and as Principal, which made it even more special. To top it all off, our piece was awarded the People’s Choice Award, we were completely thrilled and even more proud of what our students had achieved.”
Join our award-winning network
We have so many team members and franchisees who have been with us since the early days of launching more than 25 years ago. The passion and dedication they bring to their schools every day is what makes Razzamataz so special. If you are curious to find out more, contact our Head Office or book in a Discovery Den: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/discovery-dens/
