Autism's Got Talent 

Talent showcase in front of a live audience

Event Brief

Anna Kennedy Online, headed up by Anna Kennedy OBE, is a UK autism charity dedicated to promoting the inclusion and equality of children and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder throughout society.

Autism’s Got Talent, is a platform for children and adults, on the autism spectrum with WOW factor talent, to showcase their talent in front of a live audience, which is a stepping stone to help boost confidence, self-esteem and to be offered further opportunities within the performing arts industry.

The Mermaid London, who sponsored the event this year, have been the chosen venue to host the annual event, since 2012, due to the venue’s stand-out facilities, easy access to transport links and its close proximity to overnight accommodation.

The Event

The event took place in the venue’s Auditorium, boasting tiered seating with impeccable views from every seat, and a full range of high-tech AV equipment, including a large digital backdrop projection, which during the event, displayed Autism’s got Talent branding and specific displays for each performer designed by students of the charity.

Pre-positioned rigs with a multitude of lighting options were also available, with the events team at The Mermaid London managing the lighting to ensure it was kept to the minimum with no flashing images, as many performers also had a diagnosis of Epilepsy and further sensory difficulties. In addition to the Auditorium, additional rooms were used a dressing rooms and quiet spaces for individuals to prepare backstage.

Upon arrival, guests entered through the main foyer which was branded with Autism’s got Talent logos, red carpets and red roped stanchions. The foyer also boasted a fish tank which helped the performers stay calm and relaxed with sensory stimulation, before, during and after the showcase.

In addition to the showcase, guests and performers were encourage to get creative and participate in live painting on large canvas’, which were then displayed throughout the foyer.

Verdict

Anna Kennedy OBE, Anna Kennedy Online, commented: “The Mermaid London is the perfect venue for Autism’s Got Talent for many reasons; the team are very flexible in accommodating to our specific needs, the venue has many spaces, which is ideal as adults and children on the autism spectrum require a lot of quiet time and areas in which to relax. It was also perfect as we had 19 acts, two of which were groups of 20 dancers. The Mermaid London also offer many transport options for travel across the UK, including Blackfriars tube station and a car park located next to the venue and it is close to hotel accommodation, meaning our families can travel stress free.

“We were overwhelmed with the generosity of the entire team at The Mermaid London, who are also one of our sponsors.”