As 2025 draws to a close, Razzamataz Theatre Schools looks back on a landmark year marking its 25th anniversary. From incredible performing opportunities and supporting the next generation through funded franchise initiatives to expansion into new locations, 2025 has been a year to remember. Now it’s time to unwrap the highlights that made it truly extraordinary.
Paying It Forward
In a year dedicated to celebrating 25 years of inspiring young performers, Razzamataz also championed the next generation of entrepreneurs through its Future Founders competition. Winners Ben and Rachel will launch Razzamataz Burton-on-Trent in 2026, receiving not only a franchise but also a £10,000 grant to supercharge their new business. The husband-and-wife team were drawn to Razzamataz’s inclusive ethos and strong network, impressed by the support students receive and the opportunities for growth beyond performance. Reflecting on the pitch process, Rachel says, “It was challenging but incredibly rewarding, we learned so much about the brand and ourselves.” With plans to create a school that nurtures confident, well-rounded performers in a supportive, non-competitive environment, Ben and Rachel are ready to make their mark.
Developing Teachers and Teams
Continuing to prioritise professional development, this year marked not one but two Creative Development Days, hosted in both the North and South to make it more accessible than ever. The event offered practical workshops, masterclasses, and mindset sessions designed to boost confidence, enhance teaching skills, and inspire creativity in both staff and students. Attendees benefitted from insights from industry experts, including Jason Marc Williams of Laine Theatre Arts and professional dancer Chloe Ferns, as well as opportunities to learn from franchisees who have turned their passion for performing into thriving businesses. With a focus on leadership, behaviour management, and wellbeing, Creative Development Days equips Razzamataz teams with the tools to lead authentically.
Student scholarships
Our committed to helping young performers take the first steps toward their dreams, continues with our network wide Razzamataz scholarships and our own dedicated charity, The Future Fund, providing financial support for students continuing their vocational training. In 2025, Darcy Edwards from Razzamataz Mansfield was named the Future Fund winner, receiving a £3,000 scholarship to support her Musical Theatre studies. Darcy shares: “The Future Fund grant has given me peace of mind and the financial stability to invest in my course without worrying.” With her sights set on a career in performance and a future as a Razzamataz teacher, Darcy’s journey highlights the impact of scholarships.
Bold Rebrand
Guided by the new strapline and hashtag, ‘Creating Confident Futures’, the refreshed identity reflects Razzamataz’s commitment to supporting children and young people in a rapidly changing world. Beyond singing, dancing, and acting, the schools focus on building confidence, resilience, and essential life skills that help students thrive in school, work, and life. The rebrand reflects Razzamataz’s ethos continuing to be a source of fun, opportunity, and personal growth for every child.
Back on the West End Stage
2025 saw Razzamataz students return to the iconic Shaftesbury Theatre in London, taking to the West End stage to showcase their incredible talent. For many, performing on such a prestigious stage was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brought their training to life, while teachers, franchisees, and families celebrated their achievements from the audience.
Disney Magic and Paris Celebration
As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, students returned to Disneyland Paris to perform in the iconic parade. With two trips organised to meet demand, students and their families soaked up the magic of performing on such a prestigious stage, creating memories that extend far beyond technical skills in dance, drama, and singing. Meanwhile, Razzamataz Principals and franchise teams celebrated the milestone with a spectacular 25th anniversary meal at the Eiffel Tower, highlighting the rewards of being part of a multi-award-winning network.
“The students beamed throughout their time at Disneyland as they demonstrated inclusivity and the sheer joy of performing,” Razzamataz Derby.
New International Horizons
This year marked an exciting international expansion, opening new schools in Dubai and welcoming the Master Franchisee for the Republic of Ireland. These exciting international launches bring Razzamataz’s award-winning performing arts to more young people, offering the same opportunities to build confidence, creativity, and resilience. “We want our students to thrive, not just as performers but as confident, capable individuals,” Danielle Battista, the new School Director of Razzamataz Performing Arts Dubai.
UK Network Expands
2025 has been a year of growth for Razzamataz, with several new schools opening across the UK. Gemma launched Liverpool South in January, while Beth opened Bromley, Abby Chesterfield, Lorraine Preston, and James & Esme opened the doors at Northumberland in September. Takeovers include Chaneen at South Lakes, Ellie at Razzamataz Leeds, and Paige joined the Principal team across Billericay, Chelmsford, and Maldon.
Awards and Initiatives
The recognition and innovation have gone up a gear this year by piloting exciting new initiatives. The Next Gen Coaching programme has been introduced to nurture future leaders across the network, giving students aged 13 and above the chance to gain hands-on experience, develop essential life skills, and build confidence. Meanwhile, Razzamataz was proud to be a finalist in the Social Mobility Awards, reflecting its commitment to creating opportunities for all young people. The network also celebrated the incredible work of its teachers through the Razz Team Spirit Award, recognising Charlotte Logan from Razzamataz Rayleigh West and Lauren Kirkbride from Razzamataz Carlisle and Dumfries, who were awarded tickets to the Royal Variety Performance for their outstanding dedication and creativity.
Wrapped Highlights
2025 has been a landmark year for Razzamataz, and the magic wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication, creativity, and passion of the Head Office team. Here a few of them share their stand out moments.
Denise, Founder & MD: “Two Disneyland Paris parades for our students and the joy of revealing the winners of our Future Founders competition and giving them a franchise territory and grant to help get the school off the ground.”
Matty, Operations Manager: “There’s been so many but for me professionally it has been working on the rebrand but I’ve equally loved the opportunities of giving our students the chance to perform at Disneyland Paris and the West End – what a year!”
Shalamar, Teacher & Social Media Manager: “The West End performance! Seeing a piece I created performed on a West End stage is one of my proudest moments as a teacher.”
Karen, PR and Content Creator: “There’s always so much happening at Razzamataz, and it’s such a joy to bring these exciting stories to life through our content—it never gets boring!”
Join us in 2026
If you are curious to find out more, contact our Head Office or book in a Discovery Den and you can be part of our New Year story: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/discovery-dens/
