Theatre school hands opportunities to youngsters to hone drama skills

Razzamataz Wolverhampton launched at the Village Hotel in Walsall – a temporary location for the school – on Saturday.

It was launched at the hotel, instead of in Wolverhampton, due to issues with finding a suitable location in time.

But the move hadn't stopped youngsters turning out to take part in singing, dancing and drama classes at the venue.

Two open days have been held on Saturday and Sunday where youngsters, aged between four and 18, could take part.

Razzamataz shot to fame after it won the backing of Dragon's Den star and business professional Duncan Bannatyne in 2007.

And it has since expanded – with Wolverhampton's school being run by principal Danielle Campbell, who has a background in the profession.

She said: "We're a new theatre school coming to Wolverhampton, but we weren't able to secure a location in Wolverhampton at the minute.

"We'll be based at the hotel for four weeks and we're hoping lettings open up in Wolverhampton during that time.

"Denise Gosney, who founded Razzamataz, was really successful with it on Dragon's Den and since then the network has really grown.

"And the driving force of that is being inclusive, accessible and affordable and fun – that's the main thing for us as well."

The 27-year-old said she was unsure whether to continue with the project in light of the pandemic, but she stressed it was needed.

"We didn't anticipate that there would be a pandemic, and we were unsure whether to carry on," she said.

"But if there's a ever a time for it, it's now that they need it. Young people need it to build their confidence up and get out there.

"And we've had a really good day and really good turnout. We had so many enquiries as well, but we had a few people drop out because of the local and because they had a cold.

"But overall we were really happy with the turnout."

Ms Campbell, who is from Wednesfield, said she "wanted to give something back" to the city through Razzamataz Wolverhampton.

She added: "For me, it's a personal one – when I was training in dance, I found I had to travel to places like Birmingham, London, Coventry, you name it.

"And although I was given absolutely fantastic opportunities with a theatre company, I wanted to give something back to my home town.

"And with Razzamataz, I just really believe in it."

To join, email wolverhampton@razzamataz.co.uk, visit them on their website or social media, or call Danielle on 07821 965200.