“Talkback’s Got Talent seems such an obvious statement. When we work with our members on a daily basis, we all know that talent shines from each and every one of them.
It was a privilege to attend the first Talkback’s Got Talent show. And what an amazing day it proved to be!
No-one should underestimate the courage it takes to stand on stage and perform in front of peers, parents and staff. A fantastic festival of song, dance and entertainment, the show was also testament to the dedication of our staff who put it all together.
A great start to the show
The Drama Group set the mood for what was to follow, with a rousing rendition of Sweet Caroline. Then an invigorating dance routine, brilliantly choreographed, set everyone’s feet a-tapping.
Throughout the day we were treated to solo performances – including the Alien song; Hot Hot Hot, complete with sunglasses and Hawaiian shirt; and a Backstreet Boys song. There were even superhero themed moves, as Aquaman took to the stage.
Time to rein in the pace a little. Was that a tear in the eye of a seasoned staff member, during this moving interpretation of a Whitney Houston song?
Karen came all the way from Milton Keynes to sing her tender version of Radiohead’s Creep. One of the many highlights of the day. A wonderful voice interpreting a wonderful song, this was a great achievement for Karen.
No Talkback event would be complete without one of Sue’s signing sessions. She conducted the members wonderfully in a perfect Makaton version of We Are the Champions.
One of our members has been practicing singing, Relight My Fire, in the car with our CEO on the way to Wycombe Wanderers matches. Now, there’s a Carpool journey not to be missed! Thankfully, this time, he was ably accompanied by one of his peers.
Then came Talkback’s very own standup comedian! A man of many jokes, he filled the auditorium with laughter, complete with his own readymade catchphrase – ‘I’m alright, it’s the others!’
The morning concluded with the premiere of Talkback’s new community safety film on Cuckooing. Its sobering and important message is brilliantly conveyed by our member actors, Dean and Becky, assisted by a stellar supporting cast. Director, Tom, told of the lengthy process of production and his pride in the finished film.
Time for some refreshments and a chat before the show went on
Time for pizza and some social interaction. It’s wonderful when our members, old and new, come together to celebrate how far they’ve come on their Talkback journey.
Talkback’s Got Talent was also open to staff members and the afternoon commenced with the only one brave enough to give it a go. Well, who knew that David has such an amazing voice? And Bring Him Home from Les Misérables was the perfect showcase for his stunning recital. Watch out Alfie Boe!
Another great song from the Drama Group was followed by a perfectly co-ordinated dance duet. Music is an important part of the lives of our members, as evidenced by an exciting solo performance of Reach by S Club 7. And there was no shortage of other members with the bravery to sing solo during the afternoon.
We also have an Abba tribute act among our ranks. A singalong of Waterloo wished the song a happy 50th birthday and made some us of feel very old!
No-one stood in the way of our Black Belt in Karate, as she asked that we pretend she was fighting an imaginary opponent. A number of complex karate moves showed her dedication to be the best.
A fitting finale
Each participant received a well-deserved medal to celebrate their talent. Embarrassed staff accepted theirs too, even the imposter who’d contributed nothing but applause to the day, but said he’d write about it afterwards.
Events like this demonstrate the amazing heights our members can reach, given the right support and a generous dose of self-confidence. All presented by our besuited and tanned CEO (a compere beyond compare), Talkback’s Got Talent truly was a day to remember. As our CEO, Jay Hay, commented:
“Talkback’s Got Talent was an inspiration to all of us who were part of it. It’s incredible to see a person who has talents, which have been disregarded over the years because of how society labels them, have a chance to perform on stage in front of 100 people and just get up there and dance, sing or tell jokes. All I ever want is for the people we work with every day to have the same opportunity as everyone else. And that is what I saw at this event. People gaining self-esteem in their moment of being special as a performing star. Not for any reason other than someone gave them a chance to just show how brilliant they can be.”
We really must do this again sometime!”
With thanks to Tisha, who co-ordinated the show; our DJ Chloe; sound-tech courtesy of Dave; and to all the staff and volunteers who made it happen and supported on the day. Apologies if anyone’s been missed, there was just so much going on.
Here are some lovely photos from the day:
