Dragons’ Den, the BBC television series hosted by Evan Davis, is celebrating ten years of shows and has produced some of the most successful businesses in the UK.
Although the Dragons have missed a few golden opportunities such as the innovative hair brush the Tangle Teezer now worth £200 million and the Trunki, which went on to sell more than three million suitcases for children, Duncan Bannatyne was the one to spot the potential of part-time theatre school Razzamataz, which is still rated as the number 5 most successful Dragons’ Den business even after nine years of appearing on the show.
MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Hutton-Gosney appeared on Series 4 and was offered a £50,000 investment for a 25% equity share. Duncan Bannatyne explains: “As a successful business man, I instinctively recognise an excellent opportunity. That’s why I chose to invest in Razzamataz Theatre Schools. The commitment, enthusiasm and sound business sense of the team, coupled with their proven track record of success led me to become part of the business.”
Since appearing in the Den, Razzamataz has gone from strength to strength and there are now more than 40 schools up and down the country as well as a successful contract with First Choice where for the last ten years Razzamataz has supplied teachers to numerous Europe-wide Holiday Villages.
“When I appeared on Dragons’ Den back in 2007 I was passionate about giving opportunities to young people to participate in performing arts,” says Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and Founder of Razzamataz. “Today, one of the key things that sets us apart is that we really follow current trends in performing arts so we are able to build a generation of confident, fit young performers.”
One of the added benefits of Razzamataz which appealed to Duncan Bannatyne was the fact that the classes in dance, drama and singing are designed to appeal to all children and improve their confidence and self-esteem, even if they have previously had little interest in performing arts.
“Razz skills keep young people active, instill a confidence and pride and encourage social skills,” he says. “All of which are vital today,”
The Razzamataz schools all over the country are getting ready to offer a free day of performing arts fun for all children between the ages of 4-18. During the Open Day, children will get a taster of the classes and hear about what else is open to Razzamataz students.
As well as the classes, Razzamataz is dedicated to offering many other opportunities. These include the chance to perform annually at the school’s show case, the opportunity to audition for a partner talent agent that has secured students starring roles on TV and the stage, summer schools, guest workshops from top industry experts, the chance to audition for the registered charity Future Fund that provides scholarships for those that want to train at college and numerous performing opportunities including one at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London.
Razzamataz is actively looking to open further schools across the UK and in particular Aberdeen and Cardiff, where the team will be holding Discovery Den days, which give people the opportunity to meet the Head Office team and find out more about this franchise opportunity.
If you want to find out more about becoming a franchisee owner, make an appointment to come along to one of the regular but informal Discovery Den days in London, Glasgow or Sheffield to find out more about this exciting and flexible business opportunity. To book a place contact Head of Franchisee Recruitment Suzie McCafferty on [email protected] or call Suzie on 07793 054 233. For more details visit: www.razzamataztheatreschools.co.uk.
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