You can’t think of theatre training without thinking of Theatretrain! Our theatre training companies offer something unique when compared with traditional acting, dancing or singing schools. Each of our locations is spearheaded by the talent of its individual franchisee owner.
Across the country, young people aged between 3-18 benefit from the consistency of the Theatretrain Way ethos, which was developed by performing arts expert Kevin Dowsett and overarches the structure and teaching style of every Theatretrain company. But, at the same time, each owner has the freedom to put their own vibrant experience into their location, making it a perfect fit for their students
To give you a clear picture of what goes on behind the scenes at our Theatretrain companies, we interviewed our passionate Basingstoke owner, Pip Evans.
Meet Pip Evans
Pip Evans is an extraordinarily talented performer who prioritises a personal and community-based experience at Theatretrain Basingstoke. She has always had an interest and involvement in the performing arts, attending a dance school from a young age and eventually pursuing her love for theatre.
Pip’s illustrious training and performing experience give her valuable insight into what her young performers are thinking and feeling. She has found a wonderful balance between her family life at home and her Theatretrain family, and this is her story so far.
So, Pip, How Does Your Performing Arts Story Begin?
My intro is all very cliché. I started performing at a very young age. Yes, my mum and dad initially introduced me to a local dance school, but year upon year, my love for theatre grew and grew and grew.
Performance and theatre have always been a part of my life, and I think they always will. Ultimately, I am now able to teach, train and inspire students of mine week on week, and there is no better feeling.
How Did You Get Started With Theatretrain?
I trained at the London School of Musical Theatre and performed professionally in London’s West End and also internationally. It was during the international tour of Beauty & The Beast that I met my husband, Joe.
My lifestyle took a natural change, and I decided to give up performing and instead pursue a career in marketing. Even though I wasn’t performing, I found it hard to say goodbye to it altogether, so started teaching at a local Theatretrain.
I taught for 4 years alongside my job in marketing and absolutely loved it. Eventually, Joe and I got married and had 2 children, and during this time, Joe covered my teaching role at Theatretrain, so Theatretrain has been a huge part of our journeys!
Amazing! What Kicked Off Your Decision To Become A Theatretrain Franchisee?
The previous owner of Basingstoke decided that it was time for her to hang up her Theatretrain shoes and approached me and asked if I wanted to take it over.
Joe and I spoke long and hard, and in all honesty, with where I was in my life – having a young family – and with always wanting my own performing arts school, it was a very easy decision.
What Sealed The Deal On Your Decision?
What appealed to me so much about Theatretrain is that even though it’s a franchise, you have so much scope to make it your own. They trust you and encourage you to be an individual, and that was so important to me.
I think it’s important to your students and family also. Being a teacher, I had already built relationships with my students and their parents, so the transition to Centre Director and franchisee was wonderful.
How Have You Made Theatretrain Basingstoke Such A Success?
Personalisation, sincerity and consistent drive are what I believe make us successful at Theatretrain Basingstoke.
Our main objective is ensuring our students receive professional training in performing arts, so, week after week, we research and develop as best we can as teachers to ensure that is delivered.
Relationships are also key when running a Theatretrain company. You’re able to build relationships with your students, your staff, your parents and, of course, Head Office. You’re heavily supported by Head Office with what’s required behind the scenes – things like marketing and additional training to develop your business.
In fact, you have everything there you need – it’s just then down to you to add the magic and make your own centre special and unique.
After 6 Years Of Running A Theatretrain Company, What Has Helped The Most?
Over the 6 years I have owned Theatretrain Basingstoke, Head Office has really developed in line with the current climate to ensure that the resources they offer us are what’s really going to make a difference in driving our businesses to the top and to have that support is incredible.
Everybody is on the same page at Theatretrain. We all want to enrich young people’s lives and want to make a difference. We’re all passionate and want to strive and achieve.
And there is something quite special about being part of a family that all have the same hopes and ambitions as you – all whilst doing what you love and are so passionate about.
Want To Start Your Own Theatretrain Journey?
All of our Theatretrain franchisees started off with a dream or a passion for the performing arts and teaching. If you’ve been thinking of taking the next step into working for yourself and training young performers, then get in touch to find out more about owning a Theatretrain franchise.
