Last weekend, we took to the stage for the Britain’s Got Talent live semi-finals—and what a journey it has been.
From our Golden Buzzer moment during the audition to standing proud in front of millions of viewers across the UK, the Electric Umbrella community has experienced something truly unforgettable. And while we didn’t make it through to the final, the impact of our performance and the love and support surrounding it has been nothing short of extraordinary.
A Celebration of Courage, Creativity and Community
Our semi-final performance brought together over 100 learning disabled and neurodivergent musicians, parents, professional artists and children from Sarratt School. In just a few minutes of live television, we told the world a different story—one of acceptance, joy, and resilience.
“Most of the people on that stage had been written off by the world, some before they were even born—and now they’ll be able to say they stood on the biggest stage in the country and got to be themselves.”
— Tom Billington, Co-Founder & Artistic Director
Video: Our Semi-Finals performance on Britian’s Got Talent – Season 18.
Stream ‘Try Smiling’:
The buzz (pun intended) didn’t stop there. The energy in the room, the love online, and the outpouring of messages from supporters near and far reminded us why we do what we do.
More Than a Performance
This wasn’t just a TV moment. It was a movement. Over the last few months, Electric Umbrella has grown in ways we have never imagined. Our team and community came together in powerful ways—from turning Watford yellow with local performances to thousands of messages and comments of support, and cheering each other on at every step.
“Sarratt School have had incredible journey with EU. Every school should embrace the impact EU can bring to their community.”
— Mo Serby, Assistant Head Teacher at Sarratt School
A Big Yellow Thank You
We just have to take a moment to say a big thank you to the Britain’s Got Talent Team. Your support, kindness and belief in our story and meeting us where we are has made what could have been a scary journey, one that we will always remember fondly. To our Electric Umbrella members, families, and the amazing children and staff at Sarratt School—thank you for showing up, singing loud, and shining so bright.
To our Watford and Hemel community, thank you for showing up for us and always making us proud to call you the home of Electric Umbrella.
Lastly, to everyone who donated, watched, voted, wore yellow, or shared our message—you are part of this journey too and we could not have done it without you
“What we have done is off the scale in terms of impact and mission. I am so proud of our team. The passion and commitment from you all is unreal—and I can’t wait to see what the next few months bring.”
— Mel Boda, CEO & Co-FounderWhat’s Next?
We never stopped, even during our incredible journey on Britain’s Got Talent—and we’re not about to now.
We’ll keep doing what we’ve always done: delivering joyful workshops, performing in schools and communities, and launching new events and resources that show the world there’s no such thing as normal.
We’ve lit the spark—now it’s time to keep the fire burning. But to do that, we still need your support. Electric Umbrella relies on donations to fund life-changing opportunities for learning-disabled people. Every pound helps us reach more communities, run more sessions, and empower more people to shine.
If you loved what you saw, please consider donating today. 💛
