Forensic Psychology hosts immersive theatre learning event

Goldsmiths’ award-winning Forensic Psychology Unit held an immersive theatre event on campus, where audiences were given the opportunity to take part in real forensic psychology experiments in a unique learning environment.

Goldsmiths’ Forensic Psychology Unit (FPU) is an international hub for research, teaching, and consultancy on the relationship between psychological science and the criminal justice system.

The FPU hosted a sold-out immersive learning and entertainment event, in collaboration with the Department of Theatre and Performance (TAP). Throughout the immersive performance, the audience interacted and tried and help solve a murder investigation from the 1980s.

The event was the first of its kind held on campus in over three years and took place across three evenings from Wednesday 8 to Friday 10 March 2023 at St James’ Hatcham Church. The event was attended by Goldsmiths students and staff, as well as members of the public who worked together to solve a crime.

Fiona Gabbert, Director of Goldsmiths' Forensic Psychology Unit said: “The event was a huge success! Through active participation as ‘trainee detectives’ our audience members learned about the potential for (and consequences of) biased decision making, as well as learning how psychological research has contributed to the advancement of criminal investigation procedures since the 1980s. Experiential learning – mixed with drinks and donuts – proved to be fun and effective.”

From the moment they stepped into the venue, the audience were transported back to the 1980s to help the New Cross Police Department to solve a murder mystery. The immersive science-theatre event combined the best creative and research talent on offer at Goldsmiths.

Audiences gathered evidence by exploring crime scenes and interrogating key witnesses, recording evidence in their police notebooks and naming a prime suspect at the end of the night, before being given scientific feedback on their detective skills. The night was entertaining and informative, blending the arts and science for a unique event.

For more information on future events, follow Forensic Psychology on Twitter.