An evening with Daisy Fancourt, James Graham, Suzie Miller and Hannah MacInnes

Published: 26 Mar 2026

An inspiring night of conversation on the science behind the life enhancing benefits of the arts...

On Monday 23 March 2026 we were thrilled to host Professor Daisy Fancourt, award-winning scientist and world-leading expert, to discuss her groundbreaking new book, Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Transform Our Health.

In a fascinating conversation chaired by Hannah MacInnes, Daisy was joined on the panel by two of our amazing Patrons, award-winning playwrights James Graham and Suzie Miller.

We have long championed theatre as a vital antidote to the mental health challenges young people face. But last night, the conversation moved from ‘anecdotal’ to ‘irrefutable’. The data is in: the arts are not a luxury – they are a biological necessity.

The ‘Fifth Pillar’ of Health: Professor Fancourt, a world-leading expert from UCL, presented the scientific evidence proving that engaging with the arts is as crucial to your wellbeing as diet, exercise, and sleep. Her research reveals that the arts have the power to improve the functioning of every major organ system in the human body.

Empowering the Next Generation: Perhaps most heartening for our mission was the evidence on how theatre specifically combats future loneliness and frailty. By providing a ‘safe rehearsal space’ for complex emotions, theatre equips young people with the empathy and emotional literacy they need not just to survive, but to thrive and flourish.

We are more committed than ever to ensuring every young person has access to the ‘Art Cure.’ Whether it’s building new neural pathways or protecting mental health, theatre is where the transformation begins.