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
I leave my autistic son , who has very limited speach , at this amazing place knowing he is well looked after, and comes out of there one very happy boy
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!
After being welcomed in for a special viewing of how my son was doing in his send session, dance, music, fun, they look after him well, nice interaction and thanks to the girl dancers that help and support him, he's non verbal but he can't wait for his next session as he knows it in his usual Saturday morning routine, and says "Dancing" asking to go. He will miss it during the summer break. I fully recommend! 😊👍
From the moment I set foot through the doors I felt a warmth and a welcome that encompasses me and makes realize that this is a place where everyone is welcome. I am very proud to be a supporter and fund-raiser for this amazing charity.
My Grandson loved his first SEN Musical Theatre session
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.
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.
Absolutely amazing place to be. An all inclusive theatre company enabling everyone to be who they want to be.
Great Dance and Theatre company! My daughter loves all the classes she attends. Staff are fantastic! So accommodating, great at harnessing talent and ability!
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,
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.
Mushroom is such a friendly and welcoming place, the staff are amazing, caring and encouraging in sharing their passion for their craft. There is something for everyone and not just the kids, dancing, singing and acting. My 2 girls both have attended from a young age for several years and have loved being part of the shows.
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. Thank you Mushrooms 🍄
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.
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.
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!
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
My daughter does the acro class at Mushroom she absolutely loves it there. The teacher and helpers are amazing with the kids, and my little one has made lots of friends there, she was soo happy to be part of the annual show which was absolutely amazing, would highly recommend x
I have been coming to mushroom since I was 2 and still there now. Mushroom has helped me achieved a lot in life and has helped me to be able to now to go to dance college. All teachers there are so lovely and helpful, it has become my second family. Xxx
The most warm, welcoming, inclusive community. My son has thrived over the years that he has attended. Mushroom is part of who he is.
Our little boy has been attending the MTC for over a year now and loves every minute of it! He has come on so much in the short amount of time he has been going. The staff are amazing! Very friendly, caring, professional and super talented in all they do! Thank you x 🥰
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.
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.
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.
Daughter has been attending the SEN Saturday class for well over a year - absolutely fantastic people and place - with a special shout out to Amanda, Niamh and Dionne x Andy Hughes (not sure why Allen Chambers comes up !)
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!
Very welcoming lovely atmosphere
Our son has been attending MTC for over a year now. He loves going and now attends 4 classes! He has come along so much in such a short period of time. There is so much support on offer and we recommend the MTC to everyone we know. Simply AMAZING x
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.
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!!!!! 😊😊😊
Excellent children party staff brilliant
Staff at MTC are absolutely fantastic! My SEN daughter loves attending her sessions which has helped develop her social skills, she always comes out happy 😊
Amazing team my girls love coming here and are always so happy after Honestly such a good company
I have worked with this company for a short time a long time ago loved the company and I’m happy for how they have moved things forward
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 🙂
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 🥰
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!
Noah only started 4 weeks ago and he absolutely loves it already. Thursdays are now called Mushroom Theatre day and he counts down the sleeps in anticipation. The staff have been so helpful and welcoming, Noah comes out beaming and can`t wait to go back! So glad we gave it a go.
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!
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.
My daughter has just started with The Mushroom Theatre and she comes out of her classes with the biggest smile on her face! She cannot wait to show me or talk about what she has done! The people that run the classes are engaging, fun, and encouraging she feels very welcome and happy! Thank you so much this has been really needed after the last year!
Excellently organised my daughter had the best time at the zombie workshop and can’t wait for summer ones
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.
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!
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
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 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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.
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!
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!
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!
I have been coming to Mushroom theatre for about 15 years now and it is the best place to be and it is so friendly and all the staff are amazing people and I love coming to Mushroom Theatre Company and it is a really fun place to be and I have made so many lovely new friends at mushroom 🍄
The most amazing family of talented people. Inclusive, fun and welcoming.
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.
My child has been coming for over a year and she is absolutely shining when I collect her from class! She has always given up most things after a few weeks but she loves dancing at Mushroom. The encouragement and support are second to none! We recently watched a production put on by the studio and it was fabulous, there was a space for everyone to shine on the stage and the sense of community on and off stage was amazing. If you are looking for a dance singing or drama class for your child look no more 😍
Mushroom is such a welcoming place! From the moment we started taking Lucy here everyone very quickly knew her name and treated us like we'd been coming forever, it's great value and Lucy is always happy knowing she's going and even happier after her class. I'd have no hesitation in recommending Mushroom to anyone!
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
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.
My Daughter had a fabulous time at your most recent ‘Zombies’ day! She came home excited to show us her new dance routines! The staff were very welcoming and professional. She enjoyed it so much that we have booked her in for more dates in the summer!
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.
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 )
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. 🥰
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!!
Fantastic day!! It was my daughters first time at any theatre workshop and she absolutely loved it!
We had my daughters party at Mushroom and she had an amazing time. The team were fantastic, eager to help and made the whole process really enjoyable for all. Thank you!
Gorgeous work in the Ballet classes 🩰 Lots of focus, hard work and improvements! #ballet #balletclass #danceclass #performingarts
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 🤩
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 ✨
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.
