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
End of term letter July 26
Dance with me Daddy
Grade 6 Ballet & Tap
Showcase extra Drama Rehearsals
Runfest 12th July 2026
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
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 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 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 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 🍄
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 took part in the Greatest Showmsn Carnival week. Wow, what an amazing team! X
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
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 🤣🤣🤣
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.
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
Amazing team my girls love coming here and are always so happy after Honestly such a good company
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!
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 🥰
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 loves attending the SEN sessions here .Friendly helpful team very inclusive of all abilities
Absolutely amazing place to be. An all inclusive theatre company enabling everyone to be who they want to be.
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.
I am Freya Gaiger’s grandmother and I should like to congratulate you on the fantastic work you do. I have witnessed Freya’s excitement when she knows it is the day to visit you and that excitement is as strong as ever. I must admit I was a bit confused when my daughter first told me she had enrolled Freya with you. With my old lady’s hearing, I heard the word ‘Russian’ instead of ‘Mushroom ‘ and couldn’t think how Freya would benefit but I was soon corrected. Keep up the good work. Regards Pat Dutton
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
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.
Amazing was a truly wonderful show
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!
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.
Fantastic day!! It was my daughters first time at any theatre workshop and she absolutely loved it!
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! 😊👍
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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 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 😍
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.
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 🙂
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.
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 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.
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 😊
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 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 🍄
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.
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!
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 ♡
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..
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!
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 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!
The most amazing family of talented people. Inclusive, fun and welcoming.
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
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.
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
I love going to mushroom theatre company as it is really fun.
My Grandson loved his first SEN Musical Theatre session
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!!
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!
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 🍄 ❤️💙
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!
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.
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!
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.
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 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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!
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.
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!
I have just started Adult Ballet and been made to feel very comfortable & welcoming
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 !)
Excellently organised my daughter had the best time at the zombie workshop and can’t wait for summer ones
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.
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 🍄
This Saturday at MTC 😍 only £1 per cake and they are seriously tasty!!
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/
Huge congratulations to Emma who is continuing her training at CREATIVE ACADEMY ✨ Exciting times ahead! #proud #studentsuccess #professionaltraining #dance
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/
Two of our Drama students on set for a Christmas shoot 🎄 extremely proud of their professionalism! #actors #actingwork #dramaclasses #proud
Our youngest dance class ‘Dance Pops’ is back next Saturday, 5th September 🤩 Now is the perfect time to join the MTC family, message us to book a trial or visit the link: https://mushroomtheatre.co.uk/classes/dance-pops/
5 Days to go until classes are back!! Who’s excited because we definitely are 😆 Dancing, Singing, Drama, Acro, Musical Theatre & SEN classes…there is something for everyone! Message us for more information or visit the bio in our link ✨ #performingarts #istddance #danceclasses #inclusion #rayleighessex
Our studios are used for so much more than our own classes. 💛 We love seeing local businesses, groups and organisations making use of the space, and every studio hire helps support the work we do at Equal People Performing Arts Looking for a space locally? We'd love to hear from you. 👇
Park visit as part of yesterdays Essex Activate Workshop
2 weeks to go until we’re back in the studio 🤩 Thinking of joining the MTC family then this is the perfect time! ✨A fun, welcoming space for all ages with classes in many different styles ❤️ Qualified teachers who care about your growth 🎭 Lots of performing opportunities, including a yearly full school show 🏆 ISTD & LAMDA exams 💪 Build confidence and grow valuable life skills Visit the link in our bio or message for more information #performingarts #performingartsschool #newyear #newgoals #rayleighessex
✨ Want a fantastic night out that also supports a local charity? Our Autumn Charity Ball is one of our favourite events of the year, great food, brilliant entertainment, and an amazing community coming together for a cause that really matters. 💛 If you're looking for an excuse to get dressed up this October, we'd love to welcome you. All the details are in the post 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.












