IN AWE OF AUTISM: Acts show off their talents
Fourth annual event proves to be a perfect showcase for acts
HUNDREDS came together to celebrate the talent of children and adults with autism.
Autism’s Got Talent 2015, founded by Hillingdon’s Anna Kennedy OBE, was a roaring success for the fourth year running.
The showcase featured a variety of 20 acts, from opera singers to bands and dancers, from a range of ages between eight and early thirties.
Mrs Kennedy, who set up Hillingdon Manor School, which provides specialist education and support to pupils with an autistic spectrum condition, saw the positive impact the show brought to all those involved.
She said: “So many of the acts just didn’t want to go home, they were having so much fun. It gives them the springboard to think I can really do this.”
Many children and adults with autism experienced bullying and turned to the performing arts to get through their ordeal.
The mother-of-two added: “They have an independent life and quality of life and this event showcases what they can do.
“They’re not second class citizens.”
The foyer of the venue, The Mermaid Theatre, in London, was decked out in artwork ‘almost as if you walk through the mind of a person with autism as you walk through the door’.
Celebrities who attended included Jake Wood from EastEnders and Mrs Kennedy’s dance partner on BBC’s The People’s Strictly, Robin Windsor.
The showcase took place on Saturday, May 9 and hopes to run again next year.
Nominations are now open for ‘ Wear It For Autism’, with a new category for teachers and teaching assistants.
Wear It For Autism is looking for mums, dads, grandparents, children and carers – who either have autism themselves or care for those living with the condition – to have a full makeover and take centrestage in a stylish fashion event in London. The closing date to nominate a loved one is June 20, 2015.
For more information visit annakennedyonline. com.