Winner of the 2003 Governor General's Literary Award in the category of Drama

Nominated for five Elizabeth Sterling Haynes Awards, including Outstanding New Play (2003).

“(A) morality tale… about the exploitation of scientific discovery for martial means, the cloud, atomic or otherwise, that dims the celebration, the bargain that frees the Devil.” —The New York Times

“A satisfying rumination on genius, war and the danger of remarkable ideas… Thiessen’s play spins the passions of two scientists directly responsible for WWII killing machines into larger metaphors about the life of the Western mind.” —Variety

“An illuminating history lesson with the appeal of an old-fashioned Hollywood biopic.” —The Globe and Mail

“It’s funny, beautiful and troubling. It asks big questions… it resonates powerfully.” —Vue Weekly

Based on the life and work of Nobel Laureate Dr. Fritz Haber who risked everything for a country that never accepted him, but used his work to murder millions.

A revolutionary chemist, Dr. Fritz Haber discovered too late that when his knowledge was put in the hands of the wrong people, millions would die; his efforts to serve humanity futile against political will, nationalism, and war. This updated edition of Vern Thiessen’s Governor General’s Literary Award–winning play about the collision of power and pride still resonates with verve and vigour.

Vern Thiessen is one of Canada’s most produced playwrights. His work has been seen across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Vern is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Elizabeth Sterling Haynes Award for Outstanding New Play, the City of Edmonton Arts Achievement Award, and the Governor General’s Literary Award. Vern received his BA from the University of Winnipeg and an MFA from the University of Alberta.