Staged reading of an original theatrical script, set in a near-future world of new born genomic prediction, along with audience Q&A.

‘The Valley Children: A theatrical event exploring the future of genetics’ will use dramatic narrative and audiencediscussion to explore questions of decision-making, uncertainty, responsibility and care in the context of predictivegenomics, particularly around new born sequencing and its implications for families, clinicians and society.

A performed reading of the original script by Felix Westcott, will be followed by a panel and audience discussionevent, including experts in medical ethics, medical philosophy and genomics, creative writing and theatre.

This is afree public event recommended for ages 16+.

This event is part of Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, taking place 5-14 November 2026. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. For further information please see beinghumanfestival.org.

Description supplied by the event organiser.