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
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 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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.
I love going to mushroom theatre company as it is really fun.
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 ♡
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,
Amazing team my girls love coming here and are always so happy after Honestly such a good company
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 🍄
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.
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 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,
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.
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 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!
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!
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.
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 💖
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!
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 !)
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. 😉
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 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
I have just started Adult Ballet and been made to feel very comfortable & welcoming
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.
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 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!
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
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!
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!!
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.
Absolutely amazing place to be. An all inclusive theatre company enabling everyone to be who they want to be.
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..
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
The most amazing family of talented people. Inclusive, fun and welcoming.
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 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
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.
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 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
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!
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!
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
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!!!!! 😊😊😊
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 🥰
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.
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.
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.
Very welcoming lovely atmosphere
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.
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.
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 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.
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!
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!
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 )
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.
Excellent children party staff brilliant
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 🍄
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.
Sam Burling, really loves coming to Mushroom. Lovely people ❤. Made lovely friends. Best place ever. X x x
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
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.
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.
My daughter loves attending the SEN sessions here .Friendly helpful team very inclusive of all abilities
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
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 😍
It’s registration time for our 2027 show!! 🤩🤩 An email was sent out at the start of this week with all of the information about the show and a link to the registration form! Fill out the form and then come along to MTC on either Tuesday 17th or Wednesday 25th November for your child to be measured for their costumes. Show days: 6th & 7th April at the Chelmsford Theatre 🎤 We can’t wait!! ❤️
https://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/26695347.equal-people-ball-rochford-attended-south-essex-mp/
Gorgeous work in the Ballet classes 🩰 Lots of focus, hard work and improvements! #ballet #balletclass #danceclass #performingarts
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.
