Lifeline: Using Musical Theatre to Enhance Antimicrobial Resistance Education and Public Engagement: A Reflection Report from the University of Hertfordshire Master of Public Health Programme

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most significant global public health challenges of the twenty-first century. This report documents and evaluates an arts-based public engagement initiative involving Master of Public Health (MPH) students from the University of Hertfordshire who attended Lifeline, a musical theatre production focused on antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial stewardship. The report explores how theatre, music, storytelling and patient narratives can be used to enhance understanding of AMR, stewardship principles and public health communication. Reflections from participants demonstrated the educational value of creative approaches in translating complex health concepts into meaningful and memorable learning experiences. The report highlights the role of arts-based interventions in supporting public engagement, health communication, behaviour change and interdisciplinary learning. It further considers opportunities for integrating similar approaches into public health education, antimicrobial stewardship training and future AMR awareness initiatives.