Evelina London cardiac physiologist takes to the stage

Amanda Johnson spends most of her working days as an extremely passionate paediatric cardiac physiologist at Evelina London. However, for the next week she will have a second important role joining the cast of Lifeline, a musical about the discovery of penicillin and the dangers of antimicrobial resistance. From Monday 6 to Saturday 11 April, Amanda will be taking to the stage of the Southwark Playhouse to join the chorus of the musical.

The musical Lifeline is inspired by real events. It features a rotating chorus of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, vets and scientists with a connection to antibiotic work. This chorus performs alongside a professional West End cast and a six-piece band.

Amanda said: “I don't want to say too much about the musical, as I think it will be most appreciated if it is watched without knowing too much, but it centres on three different interlinking stories. These stories are all connected to antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance and Alexander Fleming's discovery of penicillin. It's so beautiful that there have been multiple occasions where I have almost been crying in rehearsals.

“I feel extremely grateful to have been given this opportunity to spread such important information about antimicrobial resistance though song. I think the message of the musical is extremely powerful, and I feel so great knowing that I am making a difference. I work as a cardiac physiologist, but I love to sing, dance and act when I can. I do have to admit that I was a little nervous before my audition, but I gave it my best shot and it paid off.

“If you've got the time to go, I highly recommend it. We have been working so hard in rehearsals, and it's looking and sounding amazing!”

Cardiac physiologists like Amanda, are highly trained healthcare specialists who work with doctors to diagnose and treat heart conditions. They run, analyse and interpret the technical tests.

Despite her excitement about her week on the stage, Amanda thankfully has no plans to trade her role at Evelina London for a new life on the West End.

Amanda said: “I love my job so much! Being able to see the same patients throughout their childhood and seeing the reassurance and calmness that can be found in moments of these children's tests really makes it all worth it, I truly feel fulfilled.

“My job is incredibly varied which is one of the main reasons I think I was drawn to it as a career. Depending on the day, I might be facilitating electrocardiogram (ECGs), treadmill exercise tests, cardiopulmonary exercise tests, blood pressure monitoring or monitoring haemodynamics (blood pressure and flow). I am also currently training in echocardiogram (echo), so I can sometimes be found scanning cardiac patients in clinic or on wards.”

The show has been running since Saturday 28 March and will close on Saturday 2 May. Amanda is taking part taking part from Monday 6 to Saturday 11 April. More information and tickets can be found on the Southwark Playhouse website: Lifeline - Southwark Playhouse Elephant.