Westminster’s Dr Daniel Brayson, a Human, Animal and Cellular Physiologist, and Success Ajayi, a Doctoral Researcher in Physiology, have joined a chorus of 60 NHS healthcare workers and scientists performing in the new musical Lifeline at Southwark Playhouse Elephant.
The production explores the global threat of antibiotic resistance, weaving together the story of Alexander Fleming, Westminster alumnus best known for his discovery of penicillin, with a modern-day narrative centred on a junior doctor in Edinburgh.
Written by Robin Hiley and Becky Hope-Palmer and inspired by real historical events and lived experiences, each performance features a different ensemble of nurses, doctors, vets, dentists and scientists performing alongside a professional cast. This approach makes every performance unique and places healthcare workers at the heart of the show.
Lifeline first premiered at the Edinburgh Fringe before transferring to an off-Broadway run, where it became the first musical to be performed at the United Nations. Now playing in London, the production is captivating audiences while highlighting Fleming’s early warnings about antimicrobial resistance.
This Scottish folk musical tells the story of a pivotal scientific breakthrough alongside two love stories set seventy years apart. Spanning from the 1950s to the present day, it follows Fleming at the height of his fame as he navigates his personal and professional life.
Meanwhile, in present-day Edinburgh, junior doctor Jess is confronted with a crisis when her estranged childhood sweetheart is admitted to her hospital. As modern medicine intersects with unresolved history, old emotions resurface, new challenges emerge and difficult decisions must be made.
Accompanied by a six-piece band featuring violin, piano, guitar, bass, whistle and percussion, the musical blends nostalgic folk sounds with lively Scottish rhythms.
Dr Brayson said: “I have been personally touched by the consequences of antimicrobial resistance as my grandfather died from a hospital superbug. Being involved in Lifeline has been a privilege, and a unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to belatedly advocate for him. I hope that anyone that sees it leaves in no doubt of the consequences that inaction around antimicrobial resistance will result in.”
Success added: “I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the show. It was an experience that brought together excitement, purpose and meaningful engagement. Beyond the performance, it was a privilege to raise awareness of antibiotic resistance while growing through collaboration and connection. It’s an opportunity I value deeply, both for its public impact and for the personal and professional development it inspired.”
The musical’s message and Westminster’s contribution directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and 17: Partnership for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about the School of Life Sciences at the University of Westminster.
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