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Lifeline, a new musical that includes a chorus of real-life nurses and doctors, is premiering in London this spring 2026.

Lifeline is playing at Southwark Playhouse Elephant in London from 28 March to 2 May 2026.

What you need to know: Brand new romantic musical Lifeline, about the discoverer of penicillin and a modern-day hospital love story, will premiere in London featuring a West End and Broadway cast, and a chorus of real-life doctors and nurses.

The show has music and lyrics by Robin Hiley, a book by Becky Hope-Palmer, and is directed by Alex Howarth (Cassie And The Lights).

Lifeline premieres in London following a successful Off-Broadway run, and making history as the first ever musical to be performed at the United Nations.

The cast of Lifeline

Lifeline features an acclaimed cast of Broadway and London stars including:

  • Alan Vicary (Girl From the North Country, The Phantom of the Opera, West End) as Alexander Fleming
  • Maz McGinlay (Hairspray, West End) as Jess Irvine
  • Nathan Salstone (Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Broadway) as Aaron Elliot/Clowes
  • Kieran Brown (Les Misérables, Love Never Dies, Wicked, West End) as Merlin Pryce
  • Helen Logan (Traverse/Tron Theatre, Pitlochry Festival Theatre) as Layla Elliot
  • Robbie Scott (Trainspotting, Phil McIntyre Live) as Julian Kerr
  • Kelly Glyptis (Phantom of The Opera, West End) as Amalia Voureka
  • Hannah Visocchi (The Duchess (of Malfi), West End), as Dr Sarah and Ensemble
  • Jasmine Jules Andrews (Brigadoon, London) as Nurse Irvine and Ensemble
  • Graham Richardson (Lifeline, New York) as Ensemble

Chorus cast list

The show begins in 1950, with Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming at the height of his fame following his discovery of penicillin, the world’s first antibiotic. However, his success is marred by his love for Greek resistance fighter and scientist Amalia Voureka, who must return home without him.

“This timely musical is a celebration of the everyday people who make the extraordinary happen – and a heartfelt love letter to the medical community: past, present and future. I hope audiences will be entertained, uplifted and feel connected to these real-world stories and the message it carries that affects us all.” – Robin Hiley (Composer and Lyricist)

Fast forward to present day Edinburgh, and junior doctor Jess faces the unthinkable when her estranged childhood sweetheart is rushed to her hospital. As old feelings resurface and old cures are put to the test, critical decisions must be made.

Lifeline will star a chorus of real-life nurses, doctors, vets, dentists and scientists alongside a professional cast, which is to be announced.

Lifeline – Plan your visit

  • Theatre: Southwark Playhouse Elephant, London
  • Booking dates: 28 March to 2 May 2026.
  • Performance schedule: Monday to Saturday evenings and Thursday & Saturday matinees
  • Running time: 2 hours 10 minutes including interval
  • Age range: Recommended for ages 12+
  • Tickets: On sale soon. Sign up for booking alerts using the form below âžž

UPDATES: First published 3 February 2026 with news of the production; Updated 5 February 2026 with casting and further creatives

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Main photo: Lifeline - London casting

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