Breaking the performing arts franchise misconceptions
Investing in a performing arts business has long been an avenue for individuals to explore their creativity and inspire young talent. However, despite the allure of this industry, various misconceptions have clouded the perception of investing in a performing arts franchise. In this article, Andy Knights, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts, aims to debunk these misconceptions and shed light on why prospective franchisees should consider venturing into business ownership in the children's performing arts sector.
Performing arts franchises focus solely on teaching performing arts
While nurturing talent is indeed a fundamental aspect of these franchises, they offer much more than catering to aspiring actors, singers and dancers. At Stagecoach, we take a comprehensive approach to education, fostering soft skills such as creativity, confidence and communication in children and young adults. This broad appeal allows franchisees to tap into a wide demographic, including parents seeking holistic development for their children.
Performing arts franchises are seasonal businesses
Many believe that performing arts franchises are seasonal businesses, with income heavily reliant on school calendars. Nevertheless, successful franchisees have discovered ways to diversify their revenue streams and establish a year-round business model. By providing additional programmes such as summer camps, workshops and other student events, franchisees can generate consistent income throughout the year. Furthermore, partnerships with local schools and community organisations can ensure a steady flow of students and engagement, ensuring long-term sustainability and profitability.
Performing arts franchises are exclusively for artistic individuals
Another misconception is that you need to possess a seasoned background in performing or significant knowledge in the arts to invest in a performing arts franchise. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. While having a passion for the arts is undoubtedly beneficial, running a franchise requires a blend of business acumen, leadership skills and a drive for success. In reality, many successful franchisees come from diverse professional backgrounds, leveraging their unique skillsets to establish thriving performing arts businesses.
Performing arts franchises suppress creativity and individuality
Some may fear that investing in a franchise means sacrificing creativity and individuality. Yet, when properly structured, performing arts franchises provide a framework that fosters creativity instead of stifling it. At Stagecoach, we encourage our franchisees to infuse their unique style and ideas into their schools while benefiting from our tried-and-tested programmes and resources. This balance allows franchisees to create a vibrant and distinctive environment that reflects their own vision while delivering the core educational benefits of our programmes.
Performing arts franchises lack the potential for profitability
At Stagecoach, our franchisees are Principals, not teachers, allowing them to focus on managing their business and leverage the robust support systems and pre-packaged resources available. This support includes comprehensive training programmes, marketing materials, operational guidance and ongoing assistance from experienced industry professionals. With these resources, franchisees can concentrate on scaling their business and building a solid customer base, rather than being burdened by the day-to-day responsibilities of creating lesson plans or managing administrative tasks.
Furthermore, children's performing arts franchises possess the potential to grow into multi-school businesses, expanding their reach and revenue streams. Franchisees can establish additional locations, hire talented staff and replicate the successful business model in new territories. This scalability enables franchisees to surpass their previous roles and achieve incomes far beyond their expectations.
By investing in a performing arts franchise, you open the door to a fulfilling opportunity to make a positive impact while establishing a prosperous business. With a perfect blend of passion, business acumen and the valuable support from a well-established franchise, the potential for success in the dynamic performing arts industry is well within your grasp.
Andy Knights is CEO of global children’s performing arts franchise Stagecoach Performing Arts – a role he has held since 2014. He has over 20 years’ experience working in the franchising industry. For more information about franchise opportunities with Stagecoach, visit www.stagecoachfranchise.com