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Razzamataz Goes International with Expansion into Ireland

By: Razzamataz Theatre Schools |  1 Shares     149 Reads

March 14, 2025 // Franchising.com // In an exciting development for Razzamataz Theatre Schools, long-standing franchisee Jessica Chandler-Smith is making history by becoming the brand’s first Master Franchisee.

Jessica first joined the Razzamataz network in 2017, opening Razzamataz Brentwood with a vision to provide young people with incredible performing arts opportunities while supporting their mental health, something that she is passionate about. Fast forward to today, and her dream has multiplied, she now manages seven locations across Essex alongside her dedicated team. This year, Jessica embarks on her biggest venture yet: launching Razzamataz Ireland.

Jessica’s ties to Ireland run deep, with Irish roots on her mother’s side and a passion for the country’s vibrant culture. However, it was her son Dawson’s love for Irish dancing that truly strengthened her bond with the country.

“When Dawson was four, we took him to see Lord of the Dance, which he loved. When he was nine, we revisited the show, and he became obsessed with Irish dancing,” Jessica shares. “Now, he trains four nights a week with an Irish dance company, and as a family, we spend a lot of time in Ireland for competitions. The more time we spent there, the more we fell in love with the country, the people, the culture, and the deep appreciation for music and the arts.”

Recognising a gap in performing arts education for young people in Ireland, Jessica saw an opportunity to bring Razzamataz to the country, providing the same training and opportunities enjoyed by her Essex students.

“There’s so much talent in Ireland, music and performance run through their blood, but there just aren’t as many structured opportunities for young people to train and showcase their skills,” Jessica explains. “With our experience and connections, we can offer something really special, including the opportunity to perform on London’s West End and regular workshops with performing arts professionals.”

Jessica has a unique approach to business, successfully integrating family and friends into her operations. Following the pandemic, her sister Fliss joined the network as a franchisee and co-owner, followed by best friend Kasey and sister-in-law Paige. Together, they have built a strong leadership structure that now oversees seven Razzamataz schools.

As Razzamataz expands into Ireland, Jessica’s husband Jamie will take on a management role, ensuring the new schools uphold the family-led ethos that has been so successful in Essex.

“The amount of time we spend talking about Razzamataz, it just made sense for Jamie to come on board,” Jessica laughs. “He shares my love for Ireland, and we both want to ensure we respect and celebrate the country’s rich talent and traditions.”

The first Razzamataz Ireland school is set to open in Dublin in September 2025, with plans to launch two more locations over the next five years. T

“Taking Razzamataz international is a new challenge, and I do sometimes feel imposter syndrome,” Jessica admits. “But I know the brand so well, and I’m passionate about what we can bring to young people in Ireland. That excitement outweighs any nerves.”

Jessica’s extensive experience in managing multiple schools, mentoring other franchisees, and running large-scale productions, including 10 annual shows, performances in the West End, and trips to Disneyland Paris, ensures she is well-prepared for this new venture.

“My goal is to replicate the success we’ve had in Essex, combining structured training with incredible opportunities to perform on iconic stages,” she says. “But at its heart, being a Razzamataz student is about more than just performance, it’s about building confidence, learning life skills, and developing self-esteem.

“My hopes for the students in Ireland are the same as for those in Essex, to help them believe in themselves,” Jessica shares. “I’ve been open about my own struggles with anxiety, and I want young people to know that with the right support, they can achieve anything. I can’t wait for Razzamataz to become part of young people’s lives in Ireland and to open doors to incredible opportunities in the performing arts.”

The Power of the Razzamataz Network

Jessica credits the support of Razzamataz’s Head Office and Founder, Denise Gosney, for giving her the confidence to take this leap. “The amazing thing about Denise is that she truly believes in us as franchisees,” Jessica says. “She has put her faith in me, and I’m so grateful she trusts me to lead Razzamataz.”

Denise is delighted that Razzamataz is making this expansion adding: “Jessica will be involved in decision-making processes at all levels, to ensure that both franchisors are aligned and on the same page. It’s important to us both that there’s a strong sense of collaboration and unity in our approach.”

SOURCE Razzamataz 

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