The Mould that Changed the World was developed by Charades Theatre Company as a unique public engagement strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by engaging children in the story of the discovery of antibiotics, the risks of drug-resistant infections and the importance of prudent antibiotic use.
The new study found that children were significantly more likely to answer questions on key messages of the musical correctly at two weeks post- performance, compared with the pre-rehearsal questionnaire, stating:
“This study demonstrates that musical theatre can improve both short and long-term knowledge. It demonstrates a hitherto infrequently reported change in attitude and motivation to change behaviour in children at an influential age for health beliefs. This unique public health tool has the potential for high impact particularly if rolled out within national education programmes for primary school aged children.”