A theatre school which has been backed by Dragons’ Den is opening in Salford next month, offering free taster sessions and 50% discounts.
Razzmataz Salford is set to welcome young people ages 4-18 onto its stage on Saturday 16 September, after being franchised by former student and industry professional, Ross Thompson.
Specialising in performing arts training, singing, dancing and acting, the school gained national recognition after being backed by Scottish entrepreneur, Duncan Bannatyne in a 2007 episode of BBC1’s Dragons’ Den with Founder Denise Hutton-Gosney. The school also has specialist connections with the likes of Disney, Mattel, and the West End.
Ross explained why he decided to open the school in the area: “It feels really special to be able to offer the group to people in Salford.
“”Razzamataz is such a big brand nationally, but I don’t think many people in this area have heard of it and I’m determined to change that.”
A former Razzmataz student from age 11-18, Ross moved to Salford from his hometown of Carlisle, to study Theatre and Performance Practice at university. Since then, his portfolio has seen him work on feature length films, music videos, and multiple stage shows, including The Bench and Diane’s Deli.
He said: “When I was a student, it felt like a pipe-dream like ‘wouldn’t it be great if I could own a studio one day?’ But when the opportunity came to open my own Razzmataz studio, I jumped at the chance.”
One of Ross’ key ambitions with the school is to offer any young person the opportunity to join in, from free taster sessions, 50% sibling discount, and the possibility of termly scholarships for those in underrepresented backgrounds.
He continued: “We want everyone to be able to perform and come out of their comfort zone.
“We’re keen to let anyone and everybody have a go. We’re inclusive for any ability or gender, and have classroom assistants that can assist those who need extra support. We want to make it clear that anyone can join in.
“I would love nothing more than a shy and timid young person to come in, but by week six, see them thriving and more confident.
“As an actor, I want to offer my resources and contacts to children who might not have had those opportunities. I never knew acting could be a career when I was young, especially growing up working class. To be able to impart this work I have done, it feels inspiring to allow young people to do whatever they want to do.”
All staff at the school are currently working in the industry, from running bands, to starring in productions.
For more information on Razzmataz, or to get involved, visit the website to book a free taster session. Classes start from £34 a term.
Razzmataz can be found at UTC Media City, 100-102 Broadway, Salford, M50 2UW.
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