FOOTLIGHTS ๐ญ DRAMA FRANCHISE UK
Discover more about this exciting children’s drama franchise opportunity
ABOUT
“Footlights creates a special place for all children and families. From the offset I was fully immersed in how Footlights challenges and enables a child to grow and develop in a creative and safe environment.”
Aaron, Rossendale and Rochdale Franchisee
Celebrating 20 years in business, Footlights has gone from strength to strength offering after-school, weekend and holiday classes. Their supportive, inclusive environment gives children aged 3 to 18 a place to build confidence, develop performance skills and to feel part of something special. Due to popular demand, Footlights are now looking to expand their reach even further. Could you be their next franchisee? Their proven business model is available to roll out across the UK.
Footlights HQ are ready to share the secrets of their success with full training, ongoing support and a comprehensive start-up pack included. If you dream of running your own performing arts school, leading a team of teachers and inspiring the next generation, a Footlights franchise could be ideal.
Franchisee Case Study
Name: ANNA MORGAN
Territory: SALE, CHESHIRE
Start Date: 2019
Anna shares her journey to franchising and the reasons why she knew that Footlights was the right fit for her and her values. She also gives the benefit of her experience and some top tips for anyone thinking of buying a franchise.
How did you come to make a final decision?
As soon as I had my initial meeting with Jo the franchisor it all happened quite quickly! Joโs passion for Footlights was evident and I was excited to be part of the network, so it just seemed like the right fit. Having a support system for the set up was a major draw and the head office team made it โeasyโ and smooth to set up.
How did you know that youโd found the right franchise opportunity?
I knew it was the right franchise because it matched my skills, values, and long-term goals, and I could see myself being genuinely passionate about running it day to day. The proven business model, strong brand, and support from existing franchisees gave me confidence in its success.
How did you secure finance for the franchise?
A business start-up loan. Jo also helped me put together a business plan.
What are your top tips for navigating the legal side of things?
Take time to go through everything and ask questions if you donโt understand. Take further professional advice if you feel like you need it!
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of joining a franchise?
Do your research and make sure you fully understand the financial commitment, the level of support provided, and what is expected of you operationally. Most importantly, choose a franchise that genuinely suits your skills, lifestyle, and long-term goals โ not just one that looks good on paper.
Franchisor Interview
Name: JO FISHER
Role: FOUNDER & FRANCHISOR
We asked Jo about the performing arts business she founded over twenty-years ago and how the business has grown since then. Jo answers questions about the ideal franchisee for Footlights, the financial investment and the level of support given to all new franchisees.
How has it grown since then?
Two decades on, I remain hands-on in the day-to-day running of the business, continuing to run my own schools and working directly with franchisees across the network. Footlights has been running high-quality stage schools for over 20 years, offering acting, singing and dance tuition to children and young people aged 3 to 18. What began as a single school has grown into a national franchise network.
What makes an ideal franchisee for your franchise?
Our franchisees donโt need prior franchise or business ownership experience or a formal teaching qualification. Footlights franchisees come from a wide range of backgrounds. What they share is a genuine enthusiasm for the performing arts and a desire to build a high-quality business that puts childrenโs confidence and development at its heart.
An ideal Footlights franchisee will be ready to build and lead a school grounded in high-professional standards and be passionate about working with young people in the performing arts.
How flexible is your franchise opportunity?
Running a Footlights stage school is a hands-on ownership role. You operate your school as your own business within an agreed territory, supported by a proven framework. Franchisees set the creative direction of their school. Most schools operate at weekends during term time with additional opportunities to run holiday schools and after-school clubs. Franchisees can do their administrative work to fit their schedule.
What kind of training and support do you provide?
All Footlights franchisees receive structured initial training and ongoing guidance, covering the creative and operational aspects of running a stage school. Franchisees receive ongoing support from Head Office including a dedicated Marketing Manager, have access to a franchisee WhatsApp group for advice and to share successes and have regular opportunities to connect in person, including an annual away day.
Fill in the form below to request franchise information from Footlights. You will also be added to our monthly newsletter database, which you can opt out of at anytime.
Footlights Enquiry Form
Fill in the form above to find out more about the Footlights drama franchise opportunity. You can visit their website here or explore more franchise businesses for sale via the Dance & Drama Franchises category, which is full of creative small business ideas.ย ย
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