When most people imagine becoming a business owner, they picture years of corporate experience. For 24-year-old Murron Lees, the journey started in a very different place, as a shy nine-year-old walking nervously into her first Razzamataz class.
Today, Murron is the new Principal and franchisee of Razzamataz Edinburgh, while studying for a Master’s degree in Psychology at the University of Edinburgh on the Child and Adolescent pathway. Her journey demonstrates how confidence, opportunity and the right support can lead to business ownership.
Transforming from shy student to confident leader
“I didn’t join Razzamataz because I wanted a career in performing arts,” explains Murron. “My parents recognised that I was painfully shy and hoped it would help me build confidence. I never put myself forward for anything and found new situations really overwhelming.”
Those first few weeks weren’t easy but Murron recognised how shy she was and also wanted to change.
“It felt daunting at first, but there was a buddy system which helped me settle in. Gradually, I became more excited than nervous and I started to discover a love for performing. Looking back, that’s where my confidence really began.”
The transformation wasn’t overnight, but the skills Murron developed would shape every stage of her future.
Building a career from within the business
When she turned 16, many of her friends left Razzamataz and Murron assumed she would too. “After our final show myself and a friend went to say goodbye to our teachers and Principal, Zoe. She asked if we’d like to become teaching assistants. In that moment I realised I didn’t actually want to leave and said yes straight away.”
That simple invitation opened the door to an entirely new career. Murron progressed from teaching assistant to drama teacher before taking on administration and management responsibilities, giving her valuable insight into how the business operates.
“When every opportunity came along to stay involved with Razzamataz, I wanted to explore it. So when Zoe told me she was moving on, becoming the new Principal felt like the natural next step.”
Alongside running the business, Murron continues working as a support worker while completing her Master’s degree, combining academic knowledge with practical experience to better understand how children develop confidence and resilience.
Why franchising was the right choice
Taking over a business at 24 is a significant step, but Murron says she has never felt like she has had to do it alone. “The support has been incredible. Head Office and Principals across the network have been there every step of the way. You’re encouraged to ask questions without ever feeling like you’re asking something silly.”
She believes that culture of support is one of the greatest strengths of the franchise.
“I love the ethos. There’s guidance without unnecessary pressure and everyone genuinely wants you to succeed. I recently watched the Razzamataz Carlisle production and was blown away by what they’ve built. It made me even more excited about what we can achieve in Edinburgh.”
Denise Gosney, Founder and Managing Director of Razzamataz, says Murron’s journey perfectly demonstrates what franchising at Razzamataz can achieve.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of our franchise network is seeing people grow personally as well as professionally. Murron’s journey from shy student to business owner shows what can happen when people are given confidence, support and opportunity. We are delighted to welcome her as our newest Principal.”
Big ambitions for Edinburgh
As the school relaunches this September, Murron has ambitious plans to grow student numbers, introduce Razzamataz Tots classes for younger children, build stronger community partnerships and create exciting performance opportunities.
She is also passionate about developing future leaders. Already, senior students have approached her about becoming teaching assistants.
“It feels like the circle is continuing. I was once the child looking up to my teachers and now students are asking how they can follow that same path.”
Looking back, Murron still finds it difficult to believe how far she has come.
“If someone had told nine-year-old me that one day I’d own the school, I never would have believed them. Razzamataz gave me confidence but in a way that never made me feel bad about myself, and that confidence has shaped every opportunity I’ve had since.”
Learn with Razzamataz
Learning never stops at Razzamataz. Whether you’re a student, assistant, team member or teacher, there are plenty of opportunities to develop your skills and confidence. Join us at our CPD Days this November in London and Glasgow, or, if you’re aged 12+, take part in our brand-new Next Steps event in Birmingham in November 2027, designed to inspire and support your future ambitions. Students and alumni can also stay connected through our Encore newsletter community, where you’ll receive the latest news, opportunities and exclusive updates.
Email: [email protected] for updates.
Discover Your Razzamataz Franchise Opportunity
Enquire early to secure your place at our next training week and see what makes the Razzamataz network so special. Book your free place on our next Discovery Den: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/discovery-dens/
Next cohort to join our Razzamataz family is week commencing 26th October at our home in The Lake District! Final opportunity to book this is no later than 15th September to secure your place for a January 2027 launch! Change your future!
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