Building Resilience Through Unique Opportunities in Performing Arts Education

The ability to adapt, recover, and thrive in the face of challenges is a skill that can significantly impact an individual's success and well-being throughout their life. The art of resilience is not something that is inherent in every individual, but it is a skill that can be taught and nurtured in young people.

Razzamataz Theatre Schools, known for their innovative approach to performing arts education, have recognised this need to promote resilience. Through their creative teaching of performing arts, the students are given permission to try many new things, stepping out of their comfort zone but with the knowledge that they are being supported every step of the way. This nurturing approach gives children the confidence to put themselves into new situations and learn from every part of the experience, all of which builds resilience and a sense of achievement in children and young people.

The desire to continue to develop resilience in young people is what led Razzamataz to create the opportunity for students to participate in overseas residential trips, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to learn in a holistic, real-world environment. UK students have participated in educational enrichment trips to Paris, New York, London and in November this year, Dubai.

“These trips give students a unique opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and immerse themselves in new cultures, promoting open-mindedness and adaptability, which are all essential components of resilience,” says MD and Founder of Razzamataz Denise Gosney. “Participating in our trips also exposes students to incredible opportunities to meet inspiring individuals, something that will impact their lives for years to come, as well as creating special memories.”

In London and New York, Razzamataz students attended masterclasses with professional performers and cast members of hit West End and Broadway shows, giving them not only insight into the exciting world of theatre and the arts, but also the opportunity to learn from individuals who have outshone in their chosen field.

“Hearing the stories first hand from people who have navigated challenges and made their dreams come true by excelling as a professional performer, is not only inspiring but also provides invaluable lessons on perseverance, dedication, and passion for our students,” adds Denise. “It is in the stories of struggle where we can teach students about the power of resilience and how they already have all they need within themselves to succeed. Our mission as educators is to show students how to tap into their own resources to become well-rounded individuals able to independently take on the various challenges that life can bring.”

Combining educational overseas trips with performing arts has been a hugely successful combination and one that’s been developed over Razzamataz’s 25 year history. Students go on to achieve success in many different industries, crediting Razzamataz with many of their life skills. Lucy from Razzamataz Mansfield recently participated in the New York trip and said: “I’m training to be a nurse at the moment and Razzamataz has really helped with my confidence.”

Parents and guardians also recognise the benefits of these type of trips and the impact that they have on young lives, in both the life skills that they learn and the memories that they make as parent Kate Stark explains after her daughter returned from New York. “I can’t believe everything she has done and the things she’s seen and places she’s been in just a few days. I’m not sure how anything can possibly top this trip she’s been on and that’s thanks to you for making it happen.” Razzamataz has extensive experience in organizing large-scale events. The team frequently stages shows in London's West End theatres and performances at Disneyland Paris. They also coordinate numerous theatre visits and various educational trips both within the UK and abroad.

Over the years, Razzamataz has honed their skills in facilitating such trips, learning the most effective ways to manage logistics, ensure participant safety, and create memorable experiences. Their expertise allows them to seamlessly coordinate travel, accommodation, and schedules, ensuring that every event runs smoothly and participants can focus on enjoying the performances, educational opportunities and have the space for their own personal development and growth.

In addition to performance opportunities, Razzamataz's educational trips are meticulously crafted to enhance learning and create lasting memories. The team curates a diverse range of activities, from behind-the-scenes theatre tours to workshops with industry professionals, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the performing arts. These experiences are designed to inspire and motivate, fostering a lifelong love of the arts.

"We’ve been working with young people and their families for many years so understand the detail that must go into these type of trips and experiences,” explains Denise. “We partake in thorough planning and research of the destination, including understanding cultural norms and potential language barriers. We have a dedicated health and safety manager at our Head Office who will prioritise student safety with detailed emergency protocols and clear communication plans. To create special memories, we engage students with a well-structured itinerary that balances educational activities and leisure so they can learn in a fun and relaxed environment. On a trip such as this, communication is key so we build collaboration among chaperones and maintain open communication with parents throughout.”

Razzamataz Theatre Schools is delighted to be attending this year’s GESS and bringing their multi-award-winning brand to Dubai. To hear more about developing resilience in young people, Business Development Director Hayley Limpkin, will be talking about “How performing arts foster emotional and social growth in young people.” Come and meet some of the team on STAND Q33

Images

Razzamataz Theatre Schools took UK students on an educational enrichment trip to New York to participate in exceptional experiences including masterclasses with Broadway theatre stars