Young talented performers awarded funding for their futures
A record number of young performers attended an audition to secure funding for their future, thanks to a charity set up by a franchise theatre school.
The Future Fund auditions are now in their fourth year, having given thousands of pounds to young performers who attend one of the Razzamataz schools up and down the country. The students can use the money to help with college fees at their chosen performing arts course, travel costs, accommodation or uniform supplies.
This year’s winner was Morgan Hawley-Townsend from Razzamataz Mansfield. Morgan will be attending Read College with a £3,000 scholarship from the Future Fund, having been selected by two independent judges.
The auditions were held on Sunday 9th June at the Scottish Youth Theatre. All of the finalists who attended were also awarded £500 each towards their study. The judges were Julianne Andrew, the assistant Principal, choreographer and head of dance at Dancepoint Training Centre and professional singer Natalie James who was chosen to become the English Coach on the Dutch version of the X Factor and who appeared on the very popular BBC1 programme Pitch Battle, where she performed alongside soul diva Chaka Khan.
“I was so impressed with the standard of talent that I saw at the auditions,” says Julianne Andrew. “Every candidate had so much passion and drive and it really showed in their auditions. The standard across the board was so high, it’s amazing to see the results of the training they are getting at Razzamataz.”
To show their diversity as performers, all the auditionees were asked to deliver a song, dance and drama piece, which reflects what they learn each week at Razzamataz. On her winning performance at the addition, Natalie James says: “Morgan has a brilliant interview and such confidence and clear goals for the future. A really strong vocal throughout and a good eye line and contact. Morgan has a great energy and stage presence and we could clearly see the passion.”
One of the benefits of taking part in the Future Fund auditions is the opportunity to perform and get feedback from industry professionals. Former students who were awarded scholarships have gone on secure places at prestigious colleges and some are starting to work professionally, including Robson Broad who is in hit West End show Hamilton.
“The Future Fund is an amazing funding programme that I can see develop more in years to come,” adds Natalie. “I was very impressed with the high standard in all three areas of performing arts and all candidates had a mature and professional approach.”
The other Razzamataz finalist were Nicola Scolin from Razzamataz Glasgow South, Katie McCall from Razzamataz Carlisle, Sophie Ullyart from Razzamataz Carlisle, Poppy Bowness from Razzamataz Newbury, Georgia Gilby from Razzamataz Sutton, Emily Compton from Razzamataz Medway and Autumn Gale from Razzamataz Maidstone.
The Future Fund is just one of the many opportunities that Razzamataz franchisees can take advantage of. Being part of a network of performing arts professionals, who combine their knowledge and contacts about the industry with proven business success, is a winning combination for successful theatre schools.
To find out more about joining our team of Principals in time for the 2020 conference, where Razzamataz celebrates turning 20, drop one of our friendly team a line. If you would like to meet Founder Denise and hear about her incredible journey and all the ups and downs, book your place at a Discovery Den in Bristol on Saturday 6th July.
We are particularly keen to recruit in Scotland; specifically, Dundee & Aberdeen and Wales; specifically, in Cardiff & Swansea and we have resale opportunities in Wimbledon & Hampstead. Contact us NOW for a fabulous 50% off the franchise fee, first term management fee free PLUS we pay your VAT. Just quote PR2020.
Due to demand, more training is planned for 2019 and 2020. Contact our Head of Recruitment Steve on E: [email protected] or call 07585 709 136.
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