Robert Benedetti wrote, designed and directed the work, billed as an "examination of the conflicts between Jonas Salk, the researcher credited with creating the polio vaccine, and his colleagues, the AMA and the scientific community." Salk was a New York native later associated with the University of Pittsburgh Medical School.

"My play uncovers the undoing of Salk by a conspiracy of profit-seeking drug companies, and AMA and federal government terrified at the prospect of 'socialized medicine,' jealous fellow scientists and Salk's own hubris," the playwright said in a statement.

Ronald Allan-Lindblom is artistic producing director of the Playhouse. The company is now in its fifth season and is committed to world premieres and works new to Pittsburgh, including works that represent local voices.

Tickets range $18-$22. For information, call (412) 621 4445 or visit www.ppc.edu/playhouse.

* The Rep Company "is the professional company at the Playhouse. In addition to a roster of stellar local professionals, the company encompasses the graduate program of the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University. Led by artistic producing director Ronald Allan-Lindblom, the Pittsburgh Playhouse Repertory Company exemplifies performance excellence and a new direction."

The inaugural season (1999–2000) established the company's objective of producing "envelope-pushing Pittsburgh and world premieres."