Theatretrain franchise opportunities
2025 Theatretrain franchise opportunities
Do you have a performing arts background?
Are you ready to make a difference doing something you love?
Can you dedicate 15-20 hours a week to building a new business?
Welcome to Theatretrain!
We’re excited to offer a unique opportunity for passionate individuals ready to turn their love for performing arts into a rewarding business. As we celebrate 34 years of success in transforming young lives through theatre, this is your chance to join our thriving network of franchisees, making a lasting impact in your community while building a profitable business.
Here you’ll find information about what we look for in a franchisee and how you can register your interest to become part of the Theatretrain family.
Our story
Founded in 1992 by Kevin Dowsett, Theatretrain has grown into a nationwide network that nurtures young performers aged 4-18, helping them develop confidence, skills, and experience through professional theatre training. With a commitment to excellence, we have provided thousands of children with opportunities to perform on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena.
Our Purpose, Mission, and Values
At Theatretrain, we believe in changing the world through the power of theatre. Our mission is to empower the next generation with essential life skills such as leadership, empathy, and resilience, which they will carry into every aspect of their lives. Putting the power of the arts into the hands of young people is right for this time. They build vital group skills, learn about theatre and, throughout their journey, develop life skills they need for their future.
We are driven by our core values of being a Family, doing Great Work, and Enjoying Ourselves. These values shape everything we do and ensure that each franchisee is supported and inspired to achieve their best.
Why Theatretrain?
Joining Theatretrain means becoming part of a national company with a family feel. We are committed to supporting our franchisees in achieving their personal and professional goals, whether that’s creating a supplementary income or building a thriving business that supports their desired lifestyle. With 34 years of experience, an excellent reputation, and a network of supportive peers, Theatretrain stands out as the top choice for those passionate about the performing arts.
Award-Winning Franchise Satisfaction
We’re delighted to have received the 5-Star Franchisee Satisfaction Award from WorkBuzz — an independent recognition based on honest, anonymous feedback from our franchisees. This award reflects the quality of our training, support, and the strong sense of purpose that unites our network.
Franchise Opportunity
- Initial Fee: £995 + VAT
- Personal Investment: £5,000
Join a thriving network of passionate individuals bringing high-quality performing arts training to young people. As a Theatretrain franchisee, you’ll receive:
✅ A dedicated Theatretrain website and professional email
✅ Comprehensive franchise support from an experienced team
✅ Step-by-step online training through our SUCCESS system
Register your interest today to discover how Theatretrain can help you build a rewarding business in the performing arts.
Who we’re looking for
We are seeking individuals with a performing arts background who align with Theatretrain’s purpose, mission, and values. Successful applicants will be passionate about making a difference, committed to learning and growth, and have the time and resources to dedicate to launching and developing their franchise. This opportunity is perfect for those who:
- Have a performing arts background or experience.
- Can dedicate 15-20 hours per week to their new business.
- Are available to run a theatre school on Saturdays.
- Are willing to invest up to £5,000 in the launch and growth of the business in its first year.
This opportunity is not suitable for those with no performing arts experience, a full-time job, or insufficient financial resources to support their first year in business.
Training and support: The SUCCESS System
Our SUCCESS training system is the cornerstone of your franchise journey. With seven comprehensive modules, the SUCCESS system provides video tutorials, written content, downloadable resources, and links to everything you need to stabilise and optimise your business operations. From understanding the products and how to deliver them to mastering marketing and customer service, the SUCCESS system will be your guide to creating a successful Theatretrain franchise.
Ongoing support for Theatretrain franchisees
As a Theatretrain franchisee, you’ll never be alone. We offer ongoing support through various channels, including:
Dedicated support teams
for marketing, digital operations, artistic guidance, and safeguarding.
Annual conferences
for franchisees and creatives to facilitate continuous professional development.
Theatretrain Creatives’ Platform
providing free, ongoing professional development for your creative team members.
In-person visits and online meetings
with head office staff to provide personalised guidance.
Private Facebook groups
for franchisees and creative teams, fostering a supportive community.
Digital marketing services
from a specialised agency to create and manage your Facebook ads at no extra charge.
With these resources at your disposal, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to grow your business successfully.
Expected income and growth potential
While we recommend reinvesting all profits from your first year into your business to maximise future growth, franchisees who commit 20 hours per week typically see:
- Year 1: We recommend all profits get re-invested
- Year 2 Profits: £17,534*
- Beyond Year 2: £37,555* annually
There is potential to increase revenue and profits if additional products are introduced, especially with the expansion of Minis, Express, a second Main Company and advanced classes. A decrease in profits is expected when insufficient time and resources are invested in the business.
A detailed breakdown of costs and potential income will be provided to applicants who proceed to the interview stage.
*These figures represent ACTUAL performance by franchisees working in a part-time capacity. There is no guarantee that you will achieve these figures and nor is it intended that you should rely on them as a warranty or guarantee.
How It Works…
Legal and Financial Considerations
Franchise Agreement
The franchise agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the franchisee and Theatretrain. We recommend seeking legal advice before signing. The agreement is standard across all franchisees to protect the Theatretrain brand and ensure fairness. Requests to modify the agreement cannot be accommodated.
Financial Requirements
In addition to the £1,000 deposit, successful applicants should be prepared to invest up to £5,000 in the first year of business. This investment is essential for launching and growing your franchise but will not be paid to Theatretrain—it will be used directly by you to develop your business.