Abstract Introduction
AMR is a national priority and subject to news coverage, but AMR can be lost in the thousand subjects requiring people's attention.Lambeth Public Health aimed to raise awareness and start a conversation with Lambeth residents about antibiotics, using the medium of the arts.Method Lambeth Public health commissioned a theatre company to perform a musical about antibiotic resistance “The Mould That Changed the World” three times in a day during Antibiotic Awareness Week. Attendance was freeIn between performances there were activities such as games and quizzes, to engage the public about the history of antibiotics and AMR issues. The last performance was followed by an “expert panel”.Medical students conducted interviews with members of the public about their experience of infectious diseases.
Results
Over 300 people attended in one afternoon. The musical started a conversation with the public, mainly Lambeth residents.Members of the public believed that the musical was powerful in bringing people's attention to AMR. Some reported being more aware of infectious diseases and the importance of infection control including hand hygiene.Cast members shared their experience and how participating in the musical changed their perception and understanding of antibiotic resistance.A video was produced and posted on youtube: in 2 months there have been 172 views.See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMXexf3k96AConclusion:The musical was very powerful in engaging the public on the issue.To ensure sustainable engagement with this agenda, a local approach is required, building on suggestions from the public and the panel. External funding details