Pictures: Tally Nothey and Terry Scott
From breathtaking musical performances and dazzling dance routines to tears, laughter and standing ovations, Autism’s Got Talent celebrated its 15th anniversary in spectacular style. Steven Smith joined the sell-out audience for an extraordinary evening that proved talent knows no boundaries.
It was a night of extraordinary talent, heartfelt emotion and thunderous applause as Autism’s Got Talent celebrated its landmark 15th anniversary at London’s Mermaid Theatre. Playing to a sell-out audience, the spectacular event delivered what was arguably its most moving and memorable show to date, with performances that brought tears to the eyes one moment and had the audience cheering with delight the next. It was a glorious celebration of neurodiversity, individuality and the remarkable abilities of autistic performers, and an evening that will undoubtedly remain in the hearts of those fortunate enough to attend.
There are certain dates in my diary that I look forward to more than others, and Autism’s Got Talent has always been at the very top of that list. It is, quite simply, my favourite time of year. Having watched this extraordinary event grow and evolve, I thought I knew exactly what to expect. Yet this year’s anniversary extravaganza managed to surpass even my expectations. From the moment I entered the Mermaid Theatre in Blackfriars, there was an unmistakable sense of excitement. Families gathered, familiar faces exchanged hugs and performers prepared for their moment in the spotlight. By the end of the evening, the auditorium had witnessed something genuinely special.
Since its inception in 2012, Autism’s Got Talent, the brainchild of the indefatigable Dr Anna Kennedy OBE, has grown from an ambitious idea into an internationally recognised showcase celebrating the abilities, creativity and individuality of autistic children and adults. Over the years, it has attracted considerable media attention, celebrity support and performers from around the world, establishing itself as one of the most uplifting events in the charity calendar.
Unlike conventional talent competitions, however, Autism’s Got Talent has no judges, no eliminations and no disappointed contestants being sent home. Instead, every performer is encouraged, celebrated and given the opportunity to shine. There is no pressure to conform to anyone else’s expectations, only the freedom to express individuality through music, dance, theatre and performance. For some, stepping onto that stage represents the fulfilment of a lifelong dream; for others, it is an opportunity to build confidence, overcome personal challenges and demonstrate talents that might otherwise remain unseen. Above all, it is a celebration of what people can achieve when they are given encouragement, opportunity and the freedom to be themselves.
This year’s 15th-anniversary spectacular pulled out all the stops, bringing together more than 20 acts, including ten newcomers and ten returning favourites. The evening opened with Dr Anna Kennedy OBE welcoming the packed auditorium and introducing special messages from celebrity supporters, including Loose Women star Denise Welch, Blue singer Anthony Costa and former EastEnders actress Kacey Ainsworth. Their messages of encouragement set the tone for an evening that was as much about celebrating achievement as it was about entertaining the audience.
There was, naturally, a generous sprinkling of showbiz glamour. Among the familiar faces giving their time to introduce performers was much-loved ‘Allo ‘Allo! actress Vicki Michelle MBE, a longstanding supporter and patron of the charity. Joining her were Christopher Hamilton and Shimi Goodman of Tiano, alongside former EastEnders heart-throb Tony Discipline and actress Ionica Adriana. It was heartwarming to see established names from the entertainment industry so enthusiastically championing autistic talent. The celebrities may have brought an extra touch of sparkle, but there was never any doubt about who the real stars of the evening were: the performers themselves.
Also joining the celebrations was acclaimed artist Piluca, whose striking mural at the Sidelings Tunnel pays tribute to the charity and its inspiring work. Some of the charity’s sponsors were equally involved in the proceedings, with Mandy Aulak of Talem Law and Ione Inness of SEND Tutoring taking to the stage to introduce acts and speak about the importance of creating opportunities for autistic individuals. Their support is a reminder that events of this scale depend upon the generosity and commitment of organisations and individuals who believe in the charity’s mission.
Guiding the audience through the evening were two enthusiastic comperes, Gateway Radio DJ and charity ambassador Aston Avery, alongside former The People’s Strictly contestant and amateur theatre enthusiast Phillip Barnett. Aston, who recently received a prestigious BQF Patrons Award presented by HRH The Princess Royal, brought his customary warmth and infectious enthusiasm to the proceedings. Together, the pair kept the programme moving with humour, encouragement and genuine affection for the performers, ensuring that everyone received the welcome and recognition they deserved.
And what a programme it was. Performers had travelled from across the United Kingdom and further afield, including Ireland and Hungary, each bringing their own personality, story and extraordinary abilities to the stage. One of the joys of Autism’s Got Talent is that you never quite know what is coming next. One moment you are listening to a beautiful ballad, the next you are watching a dazzling dance routine or cheering along to an energetic musical performance. The sheer variety is part of its magic.
The show opened with PPAS, whose founder, Maggie Paterson, has generously offered scholarships to previous Autism’s Got Talent performers, demonstrating how the opportunities created by the event can continue long after the final curtain falls.
Stevie Little Jays delighted the audience with singing accompanied by Makaton signing, while Lillie Rose Allan delivered a charming rendition of Grace VanderWaal’s I Don’t Know My Name, a song whose themes of individuality and self-discovery seemed particularly appropriate for the occasion. Holli Pandit brought a touch of elegance with her beautiful harp playing, while Macauley Elvin performed Benson Boone’s Momma Song, dedicating the moving number to his family. It was one of those performances that reminded everyone just how powerful music can be when it carries a deeply personal meaning.
Another familiar face was Rich Stevens, a tremendous supporter of the charity who has raised funds through his remarkable walking challenges, including a 50-mile effort this year. Rich stepped into the spotlight to perform The Great Pretender, adding another memorable musical moment to the celebrations.
One of the evening’s most energetic and thought-provoking performances came from The Childish, who had previously joined Anna Kennedy OBE on Nana Akua’s GB News programme to discuss their charity single, This Has to Stop. Highlighting the devastating consequences of knife crime, the song carries an important message for young people and communities. Performing the complete single at the Mermaid Theatre, the group delivered a powerful and passionate performance that brought the house down. It was a reminder that music can be much more than entertainment; it can educate, raise awareness and give young people a voice on issues that matter.
Aaron Clarke delighted the audience by playing the melodeon alongside his father, Andy, in a touching example of the family spirit that runs through the entire event.
Holly and Hannah joined forces for a lively musical mash-up, while Xander Hall brought his acting and performance skills to the stage with Simply Red’s Fairground. Joshua Scott Crowley injected another burst of energy into the auditorium with an impressive drumming rendition of Uptown Funk, giving the audience every excuse to clap along.
Sophia Naughton delivered a beautiful performance of Journey to the Past from the musical Anastasia. With its soaring melody and emotional lyrics, the song provided a wonderful opportunity for Sophia to showcase her voice. I was particularly charmed to learn that she also sings in her parents’ pub. Judging by her performance, the customers are certainly in for a treat.
Another performer whose story captured my imagination was award-winning dancer Leila Juhász, who travelled from Hungary to make her Autism’s Got Talent debut. Remarkably, it was not only her first appearance at the show but also her first time travelling by aeroplane. What an adventure, and what a debut! Leila delivered an incredible street-dance routine, bringing confidence, energy and impressive choreography to the stage. Her appearance was a wonderful example of how the event can create opportunities and experiences that extend far beyond the performance itself.
André Adams treated the audience to a selection of memorable film themes on the saxophone, bringing a touch of cinematic magic to the theatre, while Alfie Webster took us into the world of Broadway with a musical-theatre number.
Returning favourite and YouTube sensation Andrew McMurdie had travelled from Ireland to take part in the anniversary celebrations, performing an original composition entitled Memories Are Pictures. During rehearsals, Andrew perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion when he remarked, “There were so many uniquely talented people in one room, like I have never seen before.” His words summed up what makes Autism’s Got Talent so extraordinary. It is not simply about stepping onto a stage and performing; it is about friendship, confidence, opportunity and being surrounded by people who celebrate you for exactly who you are.
Yvie Bent also impressed with her rendition of Quiet, a song by Jonathan Reid Gealt, adding another emotional moment to an evening that moved effortlessly between uplifting entertainment and heartfelt reflection.
Sadly, Kieron Lee was unable to attend because he was unwell, but he was certainly not forgotten. He sent a special message, and the audience was treated to footage of his much-discussed appearance on the BBC’s The Assembly, during which he performed for former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. It was a lovely way of ensuring that Kieron remained part of the anniversary celebrations, even though he could not be there in person. Kieron also created a special 15th-anniversary compilation video celebrating the event.
Another performer who demonstrated the remarkable diversity of talent on display was Daniel Docherty, who travelled from Ireland. A talented powerlifter with an impressive operatic voice, Daniel proved that physical strength and musical artistry can sit beautifully alongside one another. His appearance was yet another reminder of why we should never make assumptions about people’s abilities or place limitations on what they might achieve.
As the evening progressed, the atmosphere inside the theatre became increasingly emotional. There had been laughter, cheers, wonderful surprises and moments of genuine tenderness, but nothing could have prepared me for the extraordinary finale delivered by Atypical with Attitude. I have attended countless theatrical performances and charity events over the years, yet I can honestly say that their beautifully choreographed dance numbers were among the most moving I have witnessed.
The performance was dedicated to Kim Stygall, the late mother of dancer James, and what followed was a profoundly touching tribute filled with love, remembrance and emotion. Every movement seemed to carry meaning, and the sincerity of the dancers was almost overwhelming. It was not simply a display of technical skill but an expression of grief, affection and the enduring bond between a mother and her child. There was barely a dry eye in the house, and I certainly struggled to hold back the tears. As the final moments unfolded, the audience responded with heartfelt applause, recognising not only the artistry of the performance but also the courage and emotion behind it. For me, it was the defining moment of an extraordinary evening, and one I shall remember for a very long time.
At the heart of all this is, of course, the remarkable Dr Anna Kennedy OBE, whose tireless determination, passion and commitment have transformed Autism’s Got Talent into the much-loved celebration it is today. Over the years, Anna has become one of the most recognisable voices championing autistic individuals and their families, helping to create opportunities, challenge misconceptions and encourage greater understanding. Yet perhaps one of her greatest achievements is the extraordinary sense of family she has built around Anna Kennedy Online. It is a family that continues to grow, celebrates every achievement and understands the importance of allowing people to be accepted for who they are.
Reflecting on the event and her hopes for the future, Anna said: “We aim to continue to build Autism’s Got Talent year by year. We want all those involved to have fun, do what they love, make friends, be themselves, and have one night that is all about them.”
Those words beautifully capture the philosophy behind the event. It is not about fame, fortune or winning a trophy, but about having the opportunity to stand proudly on a stage, share your talents and be celebrated. For many performers and their families, the experience represents something far greater than a single evening of entertainment. It is a chance to build confidence, form lasting friendships and create memories that will remain long after the theatre lights have dimmed.
Anna is also the first to acknowledge that none of this would be possible without the extraordinary dedication of her team, many of whom give their time voluntarily. Among them is Lisa Robins, one of the rocks of Anna Kennedy Online and Anna’s trusted right-hand woman, alongside the show’s stage manager, Fiona Shepherd, whose hard work helps transform months of preparation into the polished production audiences enjoy. A big shout-out also goes to Tally Nothey and Genna Nothey, who did the brilliant marketing for the event.
In an entertainment industry so often dominated by competition, image and commercial success, Autism’s Got Talent offers something wonderfully refreshing. Here, success is not measured by television ratings, record sales or the opinions of a panel of judges. It is measured in smiles, confidence, friendships, personal achievements and the sheer joy of performing. It is about recognising what people can do rather than focusing on what others might assume they cannot.
As the evening drew to a close and the wonderful performers returned to the stage, the atmosphere inside the Mermaid Theatre was electric. There were beaming smiles, proud families, emotional embraces and applause that seemed to go on forever. Looking around the auditorium, I was reminded once again why I have such enormous affection for this event. It brings people together in a way that few other occasions manage, creating an atmosphere of authenticity, generosity and genuine celebration.
Fifteen years after Anna Kennedy first set out to create a platform for autistic talent, the event continues to grow, inspire and change perceptions. And if this spectacular anniversary celebration proved anything, it is that the future of Autism’s Got Talent is every bit as bright as the remarkable individuals who make it possible.
As I left the theatre, still thinking about that extraordinary finale and the many unforgettable performances I had witnessed, one thought stayed with me: the world would be a much kinder, more understanding place if we celebrated one another’s differences with the same enthusiasm and generosity that filled the Mermaid Theatre that night.
Because talent does not come in one shape, one size or one particular form. It comes from individuality, passion, determination and the courage to be yourself. And on this remarkable evening, every single performer was a star.
Fifteen years of talent, fifteen years of friendship and fifteen years of breaking down barriers. And judging by what I witnessed, the best may still be yet to come.
As the Anna Kennedy Online family would say, “You’re all amazing, and we all rock!”
Roll on Autism’s Got Talent 2027. Whoop, whoop!
Steven Smith is a journalist, author and patron of Anna Kennedy Online.
For further information about Anna Kennedy Online and Autism’s Got Talent, visit annakennedyonline.com.
