Thomson teams up with Dragon's Den winner

Aspiring Maria’s and Josephs will be able to take to the stage on holiday next year as Thomson teams up with UK theatre schools, Razzamataz, to offer singing, dancing and acting lessons at its FamilyClub Xtra properties.

Open over the main summer period, kids and teenagers aged 5 – 16 will learn a broad range of skills from pop singing and street dance, to musical theatre song and acting.   At the end of each week they will perform to guests on the main hotel stage.

Razzamatazz theatre schools are set to become a household name following a recent appearance on BBC’s Dragon’s Den this year.  Managing director Denise Gosney has secured financial backing from investor Duncan Bannatyne and is planning to expand her theatre schools across the UK. 

For summer 2008, six of Thomson’s most popular family hotels will feature in its new family product - ‘FamilyClub Xtra’ - all chosen for their popularity, customer feedback and facilities.  In addition to Stage Academy, these properties will offer exciting new facilities designed to offer the ultimate family holiday including Reebok Academy, Kid’s Entertainer, Babyzone and Thomson the Dog themed rooms.

Reebok Academy

Budding footballers will be able to learn new tricks and perfect their skills at the new Reebok Academy’s football coaching schools open to boys and girls aged 5 – 16.  Training is led by F.A. qualified coaches from Reebok.  Sessions can be pre-booked for £25 (2 x 90 minute sessions) and every participant will receive a Reebok branded player pack.

Kid’s Entertainer

Appearing in school holidays (summer and May/October half terms), the Thomson’s kids entertainer will keep children amused teaching them tricks, wowing them with magic and generally play Pied Piper. 

Babyzone

Introduced to offer parents a quiet haven for feeding, nappy changing and playing, Thomson’s new Babyzones are separate and dedicated baby rooms conveniently close to public areas.  A free facility, the rooms are ideal for the day of departure or as a respite from the action around the hotel.  Equipment is supplied in partnership with Mothercare and Hasbro. 

Family themed rooms – Thomson the Dog

For the ultimate stay in a FamilyClub Xtra property.  Thomson the Dog themed rooms are family focused with additional room facilities included such as games, activity packs, DVD players and access to latest films via a film library.  Thomson the Dog will also make an appearance to the room.

David Burling, Thomson Commercial director, commented: “We pride ourselves on offering the best family holidays in the market and we’re always looking to improve what we offer customers each year.  He continued: “No one can ignore the popularity of talent show programmes and now kids on Thomson holidays will now be able to have professional drama and singing lessons.  Who knows we may discover the next West End star!”

Denise Gosney, Razzamataz managing director, commented: “I’m thrilled to be working with Thomson and can’t wait to get cracking to bring Razzamataz to holiday resorts across Europe next year.”

The new Summer Collection 2008 1st edition goes on sale 26th April 2007.  For further information call 0870 550 2555 or visit www.thomson.co.uk