Razzamataz looks at the positive benefits that performing arts have on boys.

The benefits of performing arts have been well documented for children and young people. Improved fitness, confidence and social skills are just some of the reasons why parents encourage youngsters to join a group or theatre school.

Traditionally, performing arts have seen to be a sector that attracts more girls than boys but with a current curriculum covering street dance, pop singing, acting for camera as well as musical theatre, Razzamataz theatre schools is proud of the number of boys and young men within the network of schools.

“We have recently worked with street dance crew Diversity who are celebrating their ten years’ anniversary and have been quoted about how perceptions that dance is just for girls are changing,” says Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and Founder of Razzamataz. “The benefits of performing are so great and it is wonderful that boys have more role models now to look up to.”

Testament to this ethos, at a recent Razzamataz performance at the Indigo at the 02, the stage was full of both girls and boys having the time of their life.

 “Boys dancing, singing and acting has definitely become more acceptable thanks in part to popular TV shows,” adds Denise. “But there can still be resistance and negative stereotypes for boys around the performing arts, which is why it is important to have role models for boys to look up to.”

Within the Razzamataz network, there are some wonderful male Principals that have enjoyed successful careers in the performing arts and some of the male students are going on to secure places at prestigious performing arts colleges plus gaining professional work including a role in hit West End musical Hamilton. “Our younger students really look up to the older boys and male teachers and they are learning that it is a really cool thing to be involved with. In terms of building strength, endurance and stamina, dance is really a sport and you have to be fit to do it properly.

“Boys love to dance and perform from a young age just as much as girls,” adds Denise. “Our Tots classes for toddlers have many boys who love to get involved in the imaginary worlds the teachers create. But as boys grow up, they do become more self-conscious and often start to see performing as a girl’s activity. At Razzamataz, we are so proud that this is really not the case and our students, both girls and boys, work together and support each other to create brilliant work both on and off stage.”

 Parents wanting to get their sons into a healthy activity for the New Year can look to the many benefits that performing arts offers: better posture, increased self-confidence, more discipline and focus, teamwork, creating individuals, better co-ordination, a connection to emotions and learning to be fearless.

 With many parents concerned over the amount of time their children spend on screens, being part of a theatre school may be just the solution they are looking for.

Throughout the UK at individual Razzamataz schools, there are free trial sessions taking place in early 2019. Simply find your local school and contact the Principal for a free session.