Mushroom Theatre Company, Rayleigh 1

Mushroom Theatre Company in Rayleigh provides regular classes for dance, drama, singing and musical theatre; as well as holiday workshops.

Mushroom Theatre Company (MTC) aims to promote and encourage each student to achieve their full potential in a totally inclusive, safe and happy environment. To build self-esteem and thoughtfulness to our world and those around us.

Our current term dates can be found here – Term Dates

A selection of our favourite photos from our last 20 years, as shown during the interval of “I Found A Place” in April 2024

Charity Ball Event

Hi EveryoneI wanted to tell you about an event we have coming up very soon.  Our Charity Ball.  This is a great chance to get dressed up in your finery and dance the night awary all in aid of our Charity: Equal People Performing Arts.  It's a fab night with a live band and 3 course meal.  You can come on your own, bring a partner or...

End of term letter July 26

HI Everyone Well it’s been a busy old year, don’t know why I say that with surprise, it always is! So this academic year has seen us have 100% passes in all our Dance and Drama exams, stage 3 very wonderful showcases performed in our own studio theatre and raising money for our charity.  A very successful annual show at The Chelmsford...

Dance with me Daddy

Hi AllJust a reminder that in aid of Fathers Day on Sat, Dd's, big brothers, uncles etc are welcome to join there children in their classes.

Grade 6 Ballet & Tap

Hi AllThank you for you responses to my email and I can now confirm that Grade 6 will now move to MondaysMondaysGrade 6 Ballet 5-6Grade 6 Tap 6 - 7This means that the Grade 6's wouldn't be needed on a Tuesday Term starts on Tuesday 1st Sept (Mon is a bank holiday) so the first Monday will be 7th. Sept) Kind regards Penni 

Showcase extra Drama Rehearsals

Hello, We are looking forward to the showcase in only 3 weeks!Reminder that tickets are on sale now. We have an EXTENDED rehearsal on Weds, so we will finish at 9pm if your child is doing drama in the showcase. Thank you for your support! 

Runfest 12th July 2026

Hi All We have been asked to perform at:Runfest Sunday 12th July King Georges park Rayleigh We would like to perform some things from the show and other items we have been working on.  We obviously need to know who is available. The performance will be at around 11.45 for about 20 mins. Please could you let us know via the link below is your...
Mushroom Theatre Company, Rayleigh 2
Praise for Mushroom Theatre Company
5.0
Based on over 100 Reviews
google
5.0

Mushroom Theatre has given my child confidence, indepence skills and I know she will be well looked after. She has alot of different friends from the groups she attends and the activate/sen holdiay dates she attends. I can highly recommend and feel that all the staff/management go above and beyond to make her days/evening fun and somewhere she loves to go.

Darlene Leeding 22 February 2022
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Absolutely loved the recent show! Every single student put their heart and soul into everything they did! An absolute credit to Mushroom! Well done all and next time I will take the advice about tissues as ended up with a soggy top 🤣🤣🤣

Vicky Thurston 26 April 2022
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5.0

Mushroom Theatre is a wonderful place to send your child if they wish to undertake lessons in things such as drama, singing, street dance, modern, ballet and much much more! It is a fun, safe, and all inclusive place where children of all abilities take part. They just put on an absolutely fabulous annual show at The Chelmsford Theatre and we were blown away! Check out their website on https://mushroomtheatre.co.uk.

Zoe Booker 16 April 2024
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My two children 6 & 10 one with SEN both attended the Halloween 🎃 workshop and disco. They had such a fun time learning some routines and playing games. My son has kept the Zombies theme going all week making himself a costume and carrying on with the routine he learnt. Mushrooms helps my daughter to build her confidence and independence in a safe environment where we can relax for the day knowing she is in safe hands.

Leah Marling 28 October 2021
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5.0

My son really enjoy attending to Mushroom Theatre and he is always fulfilled and happy after each session. Stuff and play buddies are friendly and approachable yet possess professional manner and reliable. Highly recommend.

nanae 8 January 2022
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My daughter took part in the Greatest Showmsn Carnival week. Wow, what an amazing team! X

Gillian Fautley 28 April 2019
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5.0

We were fortunate to find Mushroom Theatre Company through our autistic niece. She has been a member of the troupe for 2 years now and we were invited to watch last year's show. We had no expectation of what was to come….How lucky we were to be completely in the dark! WOW! We were blown away by the professionalism, inclusion and diversity of the spectacle before us. To see each and every child committed, engaged and smiling was overwhelming. The lump in my throat started after the third scene and didn’t leave until well after the curtain had come down. As a result, our 2 daughters were chomping at the bit to join too! So we have now been part of the extended family for a year. And what a heartwarming family they are! To be in the presence of this particular stage troupe is to know pure joy. Every person is equal and yet differences are celebrated and spot-lighted to show that being different isn't a negative. In fact, it can be your Unique Selling Point! Children are cherished and adults are adored. Hands are held and hearts are inspired. And I feel that just as a parent on the doorstep as I drop off and pick up! Those smiles are real at every lesson, not just for the show! Mushroom Theatre Company is special. It has created its own happy bubble away from the stresses of school and bustle of home. Mushroom instils positivity in its pupils and brings joy on a daily basis, not just at showtime. It's not just a business, it's a way of life. Always in awe of what you do,

Sarah Chesh 1 July 2023
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5.0

Mushroom helped my shy infant blossom into a confident teenager. Penni and the team gave her so much support as an individual and as a performer and MTC's tuition helped her succeed in getting LAMDA distinctions and A in her A level drama. She has had lots of opportunities to develop her acting and dancing skills and the regular shows, workshops and other performances have been so enjoyable to watch. We wholeheartedly recommend MTC as it is fully inclusive with students with additional needs encouraged and supported to perform alongside everyone else. Thank you so much!

Mrs Wilson 27 August 2021
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5.0

My daughters had the best 5 years at Mushroom Theatre 🎭 she comes home accomplished and with self certainty whist experiencing an environment of inclusivity, nurture and most importantly fun! Not only have I seen my daughter’s development but other students too. It’s a humbling sight.

Louise Eaton 17 April 2023
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5.0

The most amazing family of talented people. Inclusive, fun and welcoming.

Kinsey Camacho 7 November 2024
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5.0

Such a great place; teachers are all brilliant with a wide variety of classes that give opportunities to try new things. I feel that Mushroom is so much more than just a dance school - there’s a real, strong sense of community and inclusivity here where everyone is encouraged to reach their own potential.

Faye Bailey 10 April 2025
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5.0

Mushroom theatre company is the best place to be apart off is like an second home to me and being at mtc and pals is also like an home for me and i love all my friends at pals and mtc. I still love the staff because they have been absolutely fabulous making everybody feel happy and make me feel special when I first came into mushroom theatre company by meeting the team ( thank you very much for making me feel like being an drama son )

David Martin 11 June 2025
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5.0

Such a lovely Arts school for all children! Everyone is included no matter what their needs and for my daughter it is also teaching her how to be a caring, considerate child to everyone, because we are all equal and deserve the same chances in life.

Kim White 18 June 2025
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I have just started Adult Ballet and been made to feel very comfortable & welcoming

Bobby D London 14 September 2023
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5.0

Very welcoming lovely atmosphere

Lora Stacey 5 March 2021
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5.0

My six year old attended the zombie dance workshop here and loved it the staff where so good at making sure she felt comfortable will defiantly be attending other workshops here

helena Graveling 8 June 2021
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5.0

My granddaughter has been a member of Mushroom Theatre company for 15 years. Our experience with MTC has been exceptional as Penni and team have exceeded above and beyond our expectations. This has been from confidence building, providing a safe environment and always made to feel that the MTC is not just a company but a family. They have a wide selection of classes which cater for everyone which promotes equality in all walks of life. I would highly recommend this local business if you are looking to learn a new skill or/and have fun.

Linda Stephenson 8 April 2021
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4.0

My son really enjoys going there but there is ongoing confusion about how people who attend should enter and exit the premises (for covid purposes) especially if it is raining. Once that is resolved things will be much better. If there is any change to the latest standard procedure then it should be made very clear rather than parents/carers having to guess what it is.

David Antill 11 January 2022
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5.0

As a visitor from California, I was very impressed by the happiness on the faces of the children and young adults in the various classes I observed. They are obviously accepted and treasured, no matter their ability or disability level, by both staff and their fellow students - which allows them to grow and develop to their individual potential. I wish we had a facility like Mushroom Theatre Company in Southern California.

Linda Boniti 3 December 2015
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5.0

My daughter has absolutely loved going to Acro classes with the Mushroom Theatre Company over the last year. The teachers explain the moves in a very simple and clear manner. My daughter has grown in confidence, flexibility and all of the other students are very friendly.

Roxy Naz 16 March 2021
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Love this group for my 12 year old daughter who became interested in Acro when we moved to the area. Really welcoming students and teachers alike offering wonderful opportunities to perform along with regular classes developing skills and fitness. After two and a half years she’s just taken on another class & whilst it’s proving challenging it’s enabling her to build on her resilience not simply her dance ability! Additionally - Mushroom’s inclusivity is a very special ingredient which is vital to any community. Whether approaching from an SEN standpoint or not, being a part of this wonderful group will enrich any child or young person’s experience of theatre/dance.

Leigh Wolfe 17 June 2025
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5.0

We absolutely adored this year's performance! To witness the relentless work and passion that went in from all teachers and staff made it truly memorable. The creativity, planning and talent witnessed was second to none, but more importantly the dedication and enjoyment from all the children was easy to see from the audience! Such happy faces, to be in such an inclusive environment actually made me cry. It was our sons first show with Mushroom theatre group, and from the moment we first entered the premises, we knew we had made the right decision. Having had previous experience of other dance schools with my elder children, the difference was plain to see. Passionate, dedicated staff producing the most amazing and entertaining shows, whilst nurturing the children and making them so happy. We laughed, cried, and cheered. Roll on 2024's show!!

Angela Barlow 25 June 2023
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Excellent children party staff brilliant

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Both my children started here this week and I can not recommend it enough! What a wonderful place. The staff are so welcoming and friendly and amazing with the children. My son has always struggled with confidence due to his learning disabilities and it’s a huge struggle to get him to partake in anything and his first class here he was up and joining in and cannot wait to be back next week. My daughter has asked multiple times a day to come again 😂 and has thoroughly enjoyed both her classes. So happy we found this place it really is lovely 🍄 ❤️💙

Amy Kirby 24 April 2021
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5.0

This place is amazing! My daughter is autistic and has been attending attending a SEND musical theatre class since she turned three. She takes part in theatre shows every year and it has helped hugely with her confidence and her copying skills. Would definitely recommend!

Claire Joseph 18 May 2025
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5.0

We are very proud to be part of the Mushroom family. My little girl started at 2 years and very shy. She went on to do her first show on stage at 2 and then again this year at 3. I always get compliments how confident she is being so young and can only but THANK this wonderful Dance school for encouraging her and helping her thrive in such a beautiful, warm and friendly environment. We couldn't recommend this theatre company enough ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Michaela Read 11 September 2024
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5.0

Mushroom Theatre Company has been an incredible experience for my 3-year-old. She attends three classes a week—tap, modern, and ballet—and it’s been such a positive journey. Although she's naturally shy, the teachers and student teachers have been so patient, kind, and encouraging, helping her feel comfortable and confident in the classroom. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the way they work with each child to build both their skills and self-esteem is truly impressive. I love hearing her talk about her classes and seeing her grow in her love for dance. Highly recommend Mushroom Theatre for anyone looking for a nurturing and supportive environment for their child!

Danielle 18 January 2025
google
5.0

Love this group for my daughter who became interested in Acro when we moved to the area. Really welcoming students and teachers alike offering wonderful opportunities to perform along with regular classes developing skills and fitness. After two and a half years she just taken on another class & whilst it’s proving challenging it’s enabling her to build on her resilience not just her dance ability!

Leigh Wolfe 17 June 2025
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Such a brilliant company for children who are mainstream or have additional needs. My son, who has Down syndrome and Autism has been coming here every Saturday for tap dancing and musical theatre for years (I’ve lost count how many). It’s a safe space for him to explore his individuality and meet with others. When he was younger, he attended the themed days during the holidays, which is such good value for money. The company run a buddy system, where the older students come and help out. It’s meant over the years that not only has my son been welcomed by the team of staff at Mushroom, he’s been made welcome by every single student in that dance school. It has felt like a family to us for years, for which we are eternally grateful. Now that my son is 18, he can attend the PALS sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, where again, he gets to socialise and learn life skills with others who also need that little bit of extra help in life. We’ve experienced dance shows at Chelmsford theatre with Mushroom Theatre company for the last 2 years and both occasions were amazing, with the SEND children intermingled with the mainstream children. With a different classes available, there is something out there for everyone. Plus I understand they do adult classes for ballet and tap too. Whether your child/young adult is mainstream or special needs, this is the place to be. 🥰

Jane Elizabeth 16 April 2026
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5.0

I've known The Mushroom Theatre/Equal People for a number of years now and the amount of positivity that is created through the mutual love for the performing arts young and old all levels of abilities is wonderful. The level of ability is amazing very talented and awe inspiring to watch.

Steve Young 6 December 2015
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5.0

There honestly aren’t enough words to express just how amazing the Mushroom Theatre Company is. It’s not just about dancing/drama/singing lessons - it’s a proper little family. The talent that comes from MTC is phenomenal but more than that, it’s the morals and values that the children all develop, thanks to the incredible ethos that MTC has. Everyone is welcoming, friendly, supportive and encouraging. There’s no rivalry, or intimidation. My daughter has been part of MTC for almost 5 years now. Before that she had been at another dance school for 4 years which she ultimately left because there was an expectation and pressure for her to conform to being the same as everyone else. At Mushroom, my daughter can be herself and that is truly not only welcomed but it’s embraced by all the staff and students. I will forever be grateful to MTC for the joy they have brought to my daughters life.

Kerry Richardson 18 April 2023
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Lovely theatre / dance company. We have felt very welcomed since joining. They also do a big production in the theatre which is an amazing opportunity for the kids. They are completely inclusive for all children with various needs and this is what attracted me to them.

Claire Rooks 10 January 2026
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5.0

My twin 5 year olds love attending infant musical theatre every week and last week I got the opportunity to watch, which was amazing! Penni talked through everything they were doing which all made a lot of sense and it was lovely to see the confidence that my 2 children have developed during their time here 🥰

Lisa James 19 July 2022
google
5.0

ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS! My favourite place to go. I have been to two previous dance school before I joined mushroom when I was in year six and Mushroom theatre is 10000000% the best, most inclusive one! It has a very welcoming feel and a place I have made some very amazing friends! Thank you so much!!!!! 😊😊😊

Flo Blower 24 March 2021
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I have been a student at mushroom theatre company for 16 years and taken part in many singing, dancing and drama classes. Mushroom has taught me so many things over the years, not just the arts and performing. Due to mushrooms SEN provision I have volunteered since the age of 12 and now work in an SEN school. Mushroom is the most welcoming and friendly place filled with so much laughter and fun. Mushroom has a very special place in my heart.

Dione Akerman 14 March 2021
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Absolutely love this theatre school. I love the fact I can drop both of my children off and know they will be well looked after , happy and encouraged to shine as the people they are. I also love the fact that both my children will be mixing with all different people with all different abilities and will grow up to be inclusive and understanding and within this community they will be included and understood themselves.

Naomi Dutton-Gaiger 15 February 2022
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5.0

I love love LOVED Sing, Dance, Clap! Every number is so different, you just never know what to expect! From the exceptional dance routines with original and sometimes thought provoking choreography, to the comical drama acts and the singers….. its a complete joy and a feast for the eyes and ears! The way the video screen is used really adds something extra to the numbers, with video recordings from the studio used in conjunction with the live numbers on stage. The auditorium was also used by the senior dancers which gave another aspect to the routine. It is a real skill and a tribute to the schools teachers and students to accomplish the seamless choreography, integrating the special needs students and PALS and the very youngest students into the various numbers, which is a total delight seeing everyone working together. Everyone is catered for and they look after one another and have a great time performing together whilst still maintaining such professionalism! Then of course the touching moment when the school pays tribute to the years ‘leavers’ providing them the space to perform together for a last time, a really heartwarming moment with all the students photos and memories of the years displayed on the large screen behind, i defy anyone to not need a tissue! I've seen many dance school shows, but never have i experienced one like Mushroom Theatre Company. Its well organised, professional, with a high standard of dancing, fantastic choreography - and the audience leaves feeling high on life and grateful knowing that there is such a place that can invoke so much happiness in so many people whilst encompassing such diversity. Every person i took along enjoyed ALL of the numbers and personally i cannot wait for the DVD 🙂

Joanne Williams 14 July 2023
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5.0

My daughter is a wheelchair user with spina bifida, been coming to Mushroom Theatre Company for under a year, and she did her first show last week, she really enjoyed it doing it to the point she now saying she going be famous one day. Me and my husband loved watching the show.

Samantha Muller 16 April 2024
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5.0

This is special academy for special needs kids n people. Equal people performing arts. Fee structure is minimal, bearable. There is some 1-1 sessions which will help kids to gain confidence. Every child is important and special 🙂

Chitra Kumari Poli 21 September 2021
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My daughter has Aspergers she is very arty, loves to sing and dance, she tried 4 dance schools before this one, she loves it so much and just finished taking part in their show, which was so inspirational. I feel proud she is apart of such an amazing dancing school with lovely people.

Sheri Young 21 November 2016
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5.0

An absolutely wonderful dance school. They are kind, inclusive and very good value. Everyone is, not only welcome, but treated like family. I wish I went here as a child.

Nicky Gould 8 November 2024
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my daughter is suspected adhd and asd. she loves nothing better than to sing and dance. trying to find somewhere where she can express herself has been hard. we have now found the perfect place and she absolutely adores everyone who helps her out. cannot thank them or recommend them enough

Kirsty Peterson 9 August 2018
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5.0

I have been a student at mushroom theatre company for 16 years and taken part in many singing, dancing and drama classes. Mushroom has taught me so many things over the years, not just the arts and performing. Due to mushrooms SEN provision I have volunteered since the age of 12 and now work in an SEN school. Mushroom is the most welcoming and friendly place filled with so much laughter and fun. Mushroom has a very special place in my heart.

Dione Coffey 14 March 2021
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5.0

Mushroom has helped my girl's confidence so much. Its been a place to go when they've been struggling at school. Because of Mushroom, one wants to study dance and the other is on her way to becoming a SEN teacher. Thank you to everyone at Mushroom for all you do.

leigh blower 24 March 2021
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5.0

I cannot rate Mushroom Theatre Company enough! I have had 3 children dance with them of varying ages, one of whom is now a teacher, one of whom is a student teacher alongside his classes and one who has additional needs which have been met excellently! The teachers are all so encouraging and it really is like being part of one big family. Corny I know!

Karen S 12 February 2025
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Having worked with children and young people with SEN and disabilities for over 10 years, I can honestly say MTC are the only truly inclusive setting I have ever known. They are amazing, they just get it - no judgements or token gestures. Able bodied members get as much out of it as those with difficulties. They are a genuinely unique and wonderful family that restore your faith in human nature xx

Maggie Caley 25 March 2018
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5.0

My daughter started at mushroom in the infant musical theatre class as soon as she turned 5 - she is 10 now and has added classes as they years go by and loves her time at mushroom. It's such a welcoming environment, enabling my daughter to enjoy her fun classes as well as pass her dance exams in a non competitive, inclusive and encouraging environment. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Mushroom!

Rebecca Wisbey 30 December 2024
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5.0

The most warm, welcoming, inclusive community. My son has thrived over the years that he has attended. Mushroom is part of who he is.

Claire Mitchell 18 May 2025
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5.0

Excellently organised my daughter had the best time at the zombie workshop and can’t wait for summer ones

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5.0

A fantastic, inclusive theatre company where everyone has a place and a voice. Cannot recommend them enough - finally our boys feel like they have an extended family where they can be themselves.

Alexis Roy 16 April 2024
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5.0

My daughter has been part of the Mushroom family for a year now and has taken part in 2 stage shows. She absolutely loves her time in all of her classes and loves the knowledge and guidance of her teachers as well as the older children who are there for support and to lead by example. It’s been fantastic to watch her dancing skills develop over the year and we are already looking at more classes for her to join in the week. Couldn’t recommend more!

Layla Knight 8 November 2024
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5.0

Absolutely amazing place to be. An all inclusive theatre company enabling everyone to be who they want to be.

Victoria Page 16 April 2024
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Both my 11 year old boys have attended Mushroom Theatre Company for a good number of years now. We have always found Mushroom to be very supportive of the boys additional needs. Both my boys have a diagnosis of ASD. They both attend a SEN session every Saturday morning & workshop days during half term holidays. The young people that work with the boys are fabulous. They engage very well with the boys & always support their additionsl needs. Mushroom is a caring environment and has great facilities including a sensory room. I certainly would recommend the Mushroom Theatre company, they cater for all children and make sessions motivating and enjoyable.

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A fantastic, inclusive theatre company where everyone has a place and a voice. Cannot recommend them enough - finally our boys feel like they have an extended family where they can be themselves.

Alexis Roy 16 April 2024
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it's an awesome company to be apart of it really keep me busy as Im really interested in drama and music and theatre shows

Max Keeble 2 April 2022
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Mushroom Theatre Company has been an incredible experience for my 3-year-old. She attends three classes a week—tap, modern, and ballet—and it’s been such a positive journey. Although she's naturally shy, the teachers and student teachers have been so patient, kind, and encouraging, helping her feel comfortable and confident in the classroom. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the way they work with each child to build both their skills and self-esteem is truly impressive. I love hearing her talk about her classes and seeing her grow in her love for dance. Highly recommend Mushroom Theatre for anyone looking for a nurturing and supportive environment for their child!

Danielle Stanley 18 January 2025
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5.0

My niece has been coming to Mushroom theatre since she was a toddler and absolutely loves it so I thought I would join my 5 year old daughter up on Thursday to musical theatre to help with her confidence as she isn’t the most confident of children, and I can honestly say she is a different child, her confidence blossoms and every one has noticed it. She even loves the half term work shops they do

danielle lauren 12 February 2025
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Friendly setting which seems to not only be a hub for children through to teenagers to all spend time together, but also a fantastic setting for people with additional needs. My daughter has been attending the SEN session for approximately 2mths once a week and has now stayed for the holiday club and has settled amazingly which is a huge thing for her and all credit for that to mushroom!

Leigh Clarke 14 April 2018
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5.0

Our daughter has been attending the SEND class at Mushroom Theatre Compnay for about 7 years and she loves it! The staff and helpers are so good and all understand SEND children and is really inclusive. I highly recommend them, especially the SEND classes.

Chris Tyrrell 8 May 2024
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My daughter had her 5th birthday party at MTC this afternoon and we couldn't have been happier. Ellen and Sophie were amazing with all the children, and taking the time to sign to the hearing impaired children in the group was really appreciated. Nice big studio space, and plenty of facilities for adults too (tea, coffee, sofas etc) I wouldn't hesitate to book again!

Rebecca Wisbey 20 September 2019
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5.0

Mushroom Theatre Company - You make us so proud; fill us with hope; and give us a reason to smile, laugh and cry (the good kind of tears)! Everyone, from the students, the student helpers, the teachers, the parents, the management and the cheerleaders/supporters - make Mushroom the magical place it is! The safe, inclusive and welcoming place it is! We are so so so thankful for all the hard work you put in, all with a smile - to make every single person that walks through your doors feel happy, safe, supported, and most of all, have fun and be themselves! We are so thankful, and so proud of everyone at Mushroom, and can't wait to see the next steps in our children's journey with you! Keep doing what you're doing! All our love, appreciation and heartfelt thanks, The Twine family (and friends) xxx

Sakhile Twine 19 May 2025
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5.0

Thank you for all the care and consideration you give the kids. Both my two love mushroom and they enjoy being part of the mushroom Community.

Heather Gordon 19 January 2025
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Cant say enough good things about MTC. It truly is an inspiring and wonderful place for ALL children to thrive. Everyone is accepted with open arms, irrespecive of their abilities and provided with the opportunity to perform on stage They have just concluded their annual show at the Chelmsford Theatre and it yet again blew all the parents away. To see their children shine in such an amazing and inclusive environment always brings a lump to the throat Thanks to Penni and Team for all the amazing work you do

Nigel Butler 17 April 2023
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My granddaughter has been a member of Mushroom Theatre company for 15 years. Our experience with MTC has been exceptional as Penni and team have exceeded above and beyond our expectations. This has been from confidence building, providing a safe environment and always made to feel that the MTC is not just a company but a family. They have a wide selection of classes which cater for everyone which promotes equality in all walks of life. I would highly recommend this local business if you are looking to learn a new skill or/and have fun.

Lin Stephenson 8 April 2021
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Grace loves Mushroom- the highlight of her week! Everyone is so lovely and she is making some lovely friends. So happy we found Mushroom- I love everything it stands for!

Charlotte Darby 25 March 2018
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5.0

My daughter has been going to mushroom theatre company since she was 3 and now she is 5. It has built her confidence up, helped with coordination, the progression Is anmazing and she has made long lasting friends. She also has started the acro which looks so much fun and she enjoys it. The teachers are very understanding and caring with my daughter, she loves to go every week.

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5.0

The show Sing Dance Clap was a wonderful show of togetherness. Mushroom Theatre Company’s approach to equality and inclusion is something to be admired. The show was beautifully created, choreographed and directed. The show had us laughing, crying and cheering throughout. As a provider for adults with learning disabilities, it is incredible to see the opportunities our guys are given and to see them treated like stars.

Hannah Leek 18 July 2023
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5.0

Kind, caring, understanding and truly marvelous. Haven't come across an organisation as supportive of young people with and without SEND anywhere else locally.

Ally Gavin 19 September 2020
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My daughter joined Mushroom at just three years old (she’s now six), and from day one, she was welcomed in like family. Mushroom has played a huge role in building her confidence, and even during challenging times, like facing bullying at school, she always looked forward to seeing her Mushroom family. With three shows under her belt and currently rehearsing for her fourth, dancing has truly become her passion, and it brings her so much joy. A huge thank you to Penni and the team—what you’re doing is incredible! Keep up the amazing work!!

Ashley Jade 12 February 2025
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5.0

Sam Burling, really loves coming to Mushroom. Lovely people ❤. Made lovely friends. Best place ever. X x x

Hazel Bagwell 18 June 2022

Emergency First Aid at Work ✅ Big thank you to Lazarus Training for revisiting the team and giving another fantastic first aid course!

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Lots of treats available this Saturday at MTC! Johnny is raising funds for his dance residential next year 🕺🏻

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Junior Drama fun 🎭 #dramaclasses #drama #acting #performingarts #rayleighessex

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Not long to go until October Half Term! Join us for Dance, Drama, Arts & Crafts, Games & Spooky Fun 👻 Book via this link: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187

Gorgeous work in the Ballet classes 🩰 Lots of focus, hard work and improvements! #ballet #balletclass #danceclass #performingarts

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This week 😍 only £1 per cake and they are very yummy!

🎃 Dance, Drama, Arts & Crafts, Games & Spooky Fun 👻 We have two workshops available in October Half Term: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187

Junior Street working hard in their class this week 😎 we are loving seeing all of their improvements! #streetdance #streetdancing #danceclasses #rayleighessex

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🥳 Birthday Parties at MTC 🥳 It’s time to celebrate, let us make your little one’s birthday as special as it can be! Enquire via this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAlJtm1agpOEBC0AM3v-juXeCAxWxHlWWLvQ4Jw94i0Kqwow/viewform

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Give a warm welcome to another new team member, Michelle! Michelle graduated from Stella Mann college where she trained in RAD and ISTD in Ballet, Modern, Contemporary (Martha Graham technique), Jazz and Musical theatre. Michelle is an experienced teacher with over 30 years in the industry, and has coached and entered countless children of all ages through their grades successfully. She believes and concentrates on teaching good technical ability from an early age whilst keeping the classes fun with modern techniques. She has worked with some highly regarded examiners in ISTD. Michelle has been at the forefront of many dance shows, Theatre productions, dance displays, festivals and competitions, and has a passion for choreography. She knows what it takes having performed herself in venues such as the Bloomsbury Theatre London. She believes that the love she has for dance passes on through her teaching, and she encourages the children to believe in themselves and to grow with confidence. We are so happy that Michelle has joined us and the students are loving her classes already 🤩

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The MTC teaching team is growing, say hello to Vikki! With over 30 years of experience in the performing arts and entertainment industry, Vikki has built a diverse career spanning performance, education, creative direction and leadership. Beginning as a professional dancer Vikki developed a deep understanding of live performance before expanding into choreography, show creation, and large-scale entertainment productions across the UK and Internationally. Vikki’s career has encompassed both creative and operational roles, from choreographer and director to event management and production support, providing a comprehensive perspective on bringing ambitious projects to life. Alongside industry work, Vikki has spent many years shaping the next generation of performers and creatives through senior positions at leading performing arts colleges and universities. We are so excited to have Vikki’s talent and energy in the studio ✨

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UPDATE : As it stands the A127 is closed due to a serious incident further down the road. The slip road to us is closed and unlikely to be open any time soon - maybe try the back roads and walk through alleyway? Woodlands or Wyburns Ave 🫤

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🎃 Dance, Drama, Arts & Crafts, Games & Spooky Fun 👻 Join us this October Half Term: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187

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Our new hand painted collection pot that Erin very kindly brought in this week after our last one broke! Thank you Erin, we love it 🍄

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This Saturday at MTC 😍 only £1 per cake and they are seriously tasty!!

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Dress up, dine, and dance the night away! A spectacular 3-course meal followed by an unforgettable ball. Grab your finest attire and your favourite people! Book via the link: https://mushroomtheatre.co.uk/ball-2026/

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Huge congratulations to Emma who is continuing her training at CREATIVE ACADEMY ✨ Exciting times ahead! #proud #studentsuccess #professionaltraining #dance

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Spark your child’s passion for dance with our fun-filled classes for young dancers! Build confidence, learn new skills and make lifelong friends in a welcoming space https://mushroomtheatre.co.uk/classes/ballet-tap-modern-rayleigh/

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Two of our Drama students on set for a Christmas shoot 🎄 extremely proud of their professionalism! #actors #actingwork #dramaclasses #proud

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MTC was set up in 2004, with the express aim of promoting the social and therapeutic benefits of the Performing Arts, alongside the aim of creating a fully inclusive theatre company for the community.
A key part of what we do is integrating disabled students with their non-disabled peers in all our classes. We believe this approach is beneficial to everyone. All are welcome to attend our classes-regardless of gender, race, sexuality or ability. We believe this provides an excellent opportunity for the development of social interaction.

EPPA
Action for Children
Active Essex
Essex County Council
Department for Education
ACTIVate
Thurrock Council
Cloud Host One
ISTD
LAMDA
Essex Mums 23
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