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
End of term letter July 26
Dance with me Daddy
Grade 6 Ballet & Tap
Showcase extra Drama Rehearsals
Runfest 12th July 2026
Choreographic Showcase ‘The Process’ – Sunday 5th July 2026
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 🍄 ❤️💙
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 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!
First adult tap class since March. All Covid-19 procedures are in place and I felt very safe. Highly recommend the adult tap class with Penni. Gives both your brain and feet a workout!
My daughter took part in the Greatest Showmsn Carnival week. Wow, what an amazing team! X
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 🥰
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!!
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!
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
u were all so amazing ☆☆ loved the show..so much hard work must of gone in to all the performances..massive well done to all of u ♡
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 🙂
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 loves attending the SEN sessions here .Friendly helpful team very inclusive of all abilities
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.
Excellently organised my daughter had the best time at the zombie workshop and can’t wait for summer ones
After dancing since a toddler my 13 yr old was losing her love of dance until she changed dance school and joined Mushroom 🍄 I’m not sure how they do it, but they have an amazing ability to bring the kids on and teach dance at a high standard yet in a way they laugh and have so much fun without any competitiveness, building strong loving bonds between the students. My daughter has grown in personality, achieved fantastic grades and absolutely enjoys every second of her time there! She’s made new friends which extend to outside of dancing and has found her passion for dance again. I really like how they also involve the family, with regular events and showcases at the studio plus fb lives and photos to give us an insight into what the kids get up to 😁 I honestly can’t recommend them highly enough 💖
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 )
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
Absolutely amazing place to be. An all inclusive theatre company enabling everyone to be who they want to be.
Amazing ! Best hour I've spent on a Saturday morning for ages. Went with Sandy today and loved every minute. Staff Amazing ! Kids Amazing ! Keep up the good work . Cheers Wilko. 😉
This isn't just your everyday dance school, there is a very special feel about this place. The teachers are extremely welcoming and friendly and make the children feel at home. The children strike up fantastic friendships and are supportive of each other. My daughter loves coming here and calls it her second home! Would highly recommend this lovely place.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Excellent children party staff brilliant
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.
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!
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
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.
Sam Burling, really loves coming to Mushroom. Lovely people ❤. Made lovely friends. Best place ever. X x x
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 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.
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 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
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.
Kind, caring, understanding and truly marvelous. Haven't come across an organisation as supportive of young people with and without SEND anywhere else locally.
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 !)
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! 😊👍
My Grandson loved his first SEN Musical Theatre session
Very welcoming lovely atmosphere
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.
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.
Amazing team my girls love coming here and are always so happy after Honestly such a good company
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 🥰
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.
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.
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!
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.
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 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 🍄
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
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.
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.
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.
Fantastic day!! It was my daughters first time at any theatre workshop and she absolutely loved it!
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
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.
I was privileged again this afternoon to have been invited to attend Mushroom Theatre’s show, Friend Like Me. As always, the work Penni and her team put in to establishing a totally inclusive, wonderful, inspirational theatre company simply blows me away. I am proud to know so many of the performers I saw dance, act and sing today - thank you for a fabulous afternoon xx
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!
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 🤣🤣🤣
Great Dance and Theatre company! My daughter loves all the classes she attends. Staff are fantastic! So accommodating, great at harnessing talent and ability!
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!
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 😊
I love going to mushroom theatre company as it is really fun.
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 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.
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
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
This is a great inclusive theatre school. I have a child with Down's Syndrome who is non verbal and she loves going to her dancing classes Mushroom Theatre Company. They run some classes specifically for pupils with special educational needs but also integrate pupils with SEN into their mainstream classes. Their last show 'Free' showed the range of children that they teach, from very young children getting their first experience of appearing in a show, to seniors who could be heading off to dance professionally.
SEND FEST - The PALS boys had a fantastic morning performing at Marsh Farm with send_fest last week! #sendfest #sendcommunity #inclusion
End of Year BBQ & Awards 🏆 A big thank you to everyone for another amazing year! See you all back in the studio from Tuesday 1st September
This Saturday, the final cake sale of the year! Don’t miss out on the yumminess 😍
Our Senior Dance students were very lucky to have a workshop with Anthony from ROM Theatre Arts last week! Thank you so much for an amazing workshop Rom Theatre Arts #danceworkshop #performingarts #dance #oppurtunities
The next No Stress Networking meeting is tomorrow! If you're a local business owner and fancy a relaxed morning of coffee, cake, and genuine conversation, then No Stress Networking is for you! No pressure. No awkward pitches. Just friendly faces and meaningful local connections. If you've been thinking about coming along, please do come tomorrow: https://fb.me/e/7ULq2jNgU
Whether your child loves performing arts or if they want to try something new this summer! We have 10 themed workshop days running throughout the holidays ☀️ Join us and make lots of fun memories 🥳 Book via this link: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187 All details are in the poster below 👇
This is the final week of term! We break up after classes on Saturday 18th ☀️
if anyone has some camping chairs it might be an idea to bring them along tonight as we are a few chairs short for our BBQ guests x
This Saturday and perfect timing before the football kicks off! Don’t forget to book your tickets! https://buytickets.at/equalpeopleperformingarts/2247322 A brilliant evening of socialising, celebrations, food and laughs ☀️
Join the fun in Junior Drama on Wednesdays at 6.30pm. The perfect place for young performers to explore their creativity, make new friends, and shine: https://mushroomtheatre.co.uk/classes/drama-classes-rayleigh/ 📸 Essex Videographer & Photographer | Social Media Content Creator #juniordrama #dramaclasses #comedy #rayleighessex #inclusion
Next week, don’t forget to book your tickets! https://buytickets.at/equalpeopleperformingarts/2247322 A brilliant evening of socialising, celebrations, food and laughs ☀️
Whether your child loves performing arts or if they want to try something new this summer! We have 10 themed workshop days running throughout the holidays ☀️ Join us and make lots of fun memories 🥳 Book via this link: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187 All details are in the poster below 👇
Jumping into Saturday classes 🎉 📸 Essex Videographer & Photographer | Social Media Content Creator #saturdayclasses #dance #acro #performingarts #danceschool
🎭 THIS WEEK 🎭 The students have been working extremely hard and can’t wait for you to watch on Sunday! There’s still time to book your tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/equalpeopleperformingarts/2247337
‘Dance with Daddy Day’ in celebration of Father’s Day 💙 #fathersday #dance #family #performingarts #inclusion
As the weather gets hotter, please remember that we have air conditioning in all studios at MTC. Your children will be safe and cool ☀️
☀️ Summer Holiday Workshops ☀️ We have 10 themed workshop days running throughout the holidays! Whether you love performing arts or if you want to try something new this summer! Join us and make lots of fun memories 🥳 Book via this link: https://app.classmanager.com/pay-as-you-go/mushroom-theatre-company-6187 All details are in the poster below 👇
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.












