Autism's Got Talent 2024: A Huge Success!
Last weekend, Anna Kennedy Online, Supported by Pineapple Performing Arts, hosted our annual talent showcase for young people on the Autism spectrum, “Autism’s Got Talent” Held at the Mermaid Theatre. This years’ show was a huge success thanks to the incredible talent of our performers, and the efforts of the amazing crew working behind the scenes to keep the show running.
Here’s what some of our performers and their families had to say about their experience at Autism’s Got Talent:
We have just had the most amazing weekend in London with Autism’s Got Talent. Caydian was so excited to get through to the final show. The event is so professionally put together and Anna and her team are amazing, especially Lisa Robins (I don’t know where she gets her energy from).
Everyone was so warm and patient with Caydian. He had been through a very tough few months, leading up to AGT and I did not know if he would be strong enough to perform but with all the team being so nurturing and confidence boosting, he did it! It was wonderful to meet all the other super talented performers and their families/friends. It really felt like we were one big family.
I can only imagine how much work/time and effort must go into organising AGT. Thankyou for this amazing, unique opportunity. We will remember it for years to come❤️
-Mum of Caydian Evans
We had the absolute pleasure of attending Autism’s Got Talent on 12th October 2024 at The Mermaid Theatre in London, and it was truly a night to remember.
Aaron Clark took to the stage, and it was an unforgettable experience for him and for all of us in attendance. The event, wonderfully organised by Anna Kennedy and her fantastic team, showcased an array of extraordinary talent, each act bringing something unique and powerful to the stage.
A special shout out to Lisa, who was pivotal in ensuring the night ran smoothly. She is such a wonderful person, and her efforts behind the scenes did not go unnoticed. The entire team handled every aspect of the event—from the celebrity-filled red carpet to the performances and backstage management—with such professionalism and care.
What really stood out was the opportunity that Autism’s Got Talent provides for performers like Aaron. The platform gave them a chance to shine, and the experience will be cherished for a lifetime. The talent on display was absolutely mind-blowing, with each act showcasing something different, from music and dance to other impressive skills.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to Anna Kennedy, Lisa, and the entire Autism’s Got Talent team for giving Aaron and all the other acts such a phenomenal experience. This is a memory that will last a lifetime, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity
-Aaron and Andy Clark
Me and my Ma had such a great time. It was so great to meet yourself Lisa, as well as Anna, Phil, Aston, Tally and the rest of the team. Honestly you have such a special way with how you all treat people and the hospitality was through the roof, we couldn’t ask for more.
As far as the show, let me start by saying, it was one of the most professional shows I’ve been apart of, lighting, sound, organisation back stage they were all second to none. And pairing me with Alex and Steven, I know it was random but, we got on so well together, and Steven got my ma a can of Coke which went down a treat.
Lastly the entertainment, so many uniquely talented people in the one room, I never did see. There was singing, there was drama, there was dancing, and there was trad music, not a single one of us clashed with one another, because everyone was so different. Thank you for the memories that I will cherish, and for the friendships that I made over in London. All the best, Andrew.
-Andrew McMurdie
What a fantastic event. Showcasing diversity in autism itself and also the talents of those on the spectrum.
What people CAN do! Also the support from the team before, during and after the show. I’ve met some fantastic people and friends of the future x
-Lianne Vessier
May I take to the opportunity to thank you and all of your team for being so welcoming and giving our young people the most wonderful opportunity and memories to last a lifetime.
It was a very special experience x
-True colours theatre
AGT put on the most amazing show ever a fantastic opportunity for our young people to showcase their amazing talents. Seriously every single act was star quality. All the staff supported and ensured Ethan had the best time ever and gave him plenty of time to settle his nerves (I know he doesn’t seem to be nervous type but he does have )and to feel comfortable and happy with his performance.
He was so happy to meet the other performers and really enjoyed himself. He was so happy to meet Anna and it was so funny how he kept saying her full name Anna Kennedy. It was marvellous, glitzy, glamorous, fun and full of talent event which Ethan loved.
I watched the rehearsals all the way through twice and then the show and I could watch it all again. Thank you to all the staff who took care of us and gave Ethan the best time. The staff were friendly and helpful and made the day super special. Thank you all so much Ethan had the best day ever and is so proud you chose him as a performer for AGT 2024
-Brenda Stewart MBACP, Mum of Ethan Stewart
This was the most fun I’ve had in a long time. To be performing next to such talented individuals who share the same struggles as me was amazing.
Everyone was so kind and lovely. I will definitely be auditioning again next year
-Chloe Duffy
We have been attending AGT for a good few years now, and it is certainly a highlight in our social calendar! Its great to be able to attend an event where you can truly be yourself and always fun to reconnect with familiar faces.
This year, Swaran had the surprise of his life when he was asked to step in and dazzle the audience with his calendar skills. It was great to experience the camaraderie back stage and fully appreciate just how much hard work goes into putting this show together.
For Swaran, being able to perform on stage has naturally given him a huge confidence boost. For me, as his parent, it was such a highlight to see the gasps of astonishment from the audience a he completely amazed everyone with the speed of his date calculations.
Thank you for giving him that opportunity to shine on stage. It will forever be an unforgettable and memorable experience.
-Mandy Aulak, Mum of Swaran Hayer
Thank you to all of our performers, their families, and all who attended Autism’s Got Talent this year! Applications are now OPEN for next year, we can’t wait to see you again!
