Franchising details
Footlights Theatre School was founded by Jo Fisher in 2005, and the first franchise was issued in 2009. The company provides affordable stage school learning and training for young people aged from three to 18, alongside producing plays for theatres and schools.
The business also operates its own casting agency.
The first Footlights Theatre School franchise was owned and operated by Lindsey Berry, a former mature student at the school. And, the franchising side of the business then grew from strength to strength.
By 2012 there were three extremely successful Footlights Theatre Schools in operation.
Jo then took a step back for a while, halting all new franchise operations while she consolidated and expanded her brand and further enhanced the instruction/operational manual for franchisees.
This work was completed by 2016 and a further four franchises were launched.
Footlights is based in a purpose-built building in central Media City, Manchester and is currently in the process of building its own theatre.
This will become a hub for ongoing training, while also being an excellent venue for hosting events and staging shows.
Franchisees from any area of the UK will have the ability to access this hub.
Typical total start up costs for this franchise are £13,250.
Franchise costs and details
Training and support
Footlights has a strong mission to provide education via performing arts. As such, all franchisees benefit from a ten-day intensive training programme which runs from the Media City HQ.
Franchisees learn all about business operations and the core business structure, as detailed in the comprehensive operations manual.
Customer service, business, IT learning, and marketing techniques are also taught.
An additional and optional training package is also available to gain first aid and safeguarding certifications.
Franchisees can also benefit from on-the-job training at an existing Footlights stage school.
If training is required for exams, like Lamda and Arts Awards, this can also be provided.
