This past weekend, I had the pleasure of representing Talem Law as one of the sponsors of Autism’s Got Talent (AGT) 2025, and what a fantastic evening it was! We have attended for many years (at least 5/6 years) in different roles, including the unforgettable time when my son performed (in 2024), but this was our first year as an official sponsor. It felt extra special to see the event from that front row perspective, whichI attended with my guests, including my son, who absolutely loved every minute.
Now in its 14th year, AGT has become such a highlight in the calendar, and this year’s show was no exception. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing. Familiarfriendly faces, supporters, and charity champions filled the Mermaid theatre, all united by a sense of pride and joy.
Having been both a sponsor and the parent of a former performer, I feel I have a unique insight into how much work goes into making the evening run so smoothly. From the volunteers who welcome you at the door, check you in, the photographs taken on the red carpet, to those handing out programmes and guiding guests, every detail is handled with care. Behind the curtain, there’s an incredible amount of coordination — lighting, sound, music cues, and those last-minute pep talks that help performers shine. Having once stood on the other side of the stage with my son, I know first-hand just how much passion and planning goes into creating that “on stage” magic.
The show opened with an energetic dance routine from PPAS, which set the tone perfectly for what was to come. We were also treated to brilliant compering by Phil Barnett (not Phil Mitchell as Anna accidentally referred to him at one point!)and Aston Avery, who brought humour, warmth, and enthusiasm that carried right through the night.
The performances were simply wonderful and so varied. There was music, dance, magic, and more, all showcasing the incredible range of talent on stage by autistic performers of all ages and from across the UK, Ireland, Northern Ireland and the USA. It was lovely to see Angus Baskerville, a previous performer at AGT and someone I have met many times at Annakennedyonline charity events, whose magic skills never fails to captivate and leave me wondering how he does it. Chapman Shum’s pianist performance was powerful and moving, and my son was especially thrilled by Chirag and Mahendra Dodhi’s tabla based performance spreading the message of peace, love and unity. We were also delighted to see Daisy Hutchinson, who we know personally, take to the stage with her brilliant street dance performance. Lana Mitchell’s act, which included reciting the alphabet backwards, was truly jaw dropping. I couldn’t pick a favourite, although hearing “Money Too Tight to Mention” and “The Great Pretender” definitely had me singing along for the next few days! I really could go on about the strength of talent I witnessed that evening.
By the end of the night, my camera roll was full of photos and videos that I keep replaying, just reliving the joy of it all. Each act brought something different, and it reminded me once again how uplifting it is to see autistic people given the opportunity to shine. Every year this event gets better, and I feel so proud that Talem Law could play a small part in supporting something so meaningful and inspiring.
A huge thank you to Anna Kennedy and her team for another unforgettable evening, and to every performer, volunteer, and supporter who helped make it happen. We enjoyed every second and cannot wait for next year’s show!
Mandy Aulak,
Director & Co-Founder of Talem Law
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