Objective: This paper documents use of a historically accurate and psychiatrically relevant play written by a couple of visiting academics.
Conclusion: The high recognisability of first author Samuel Shem's name was used to attract interest from both within the medical profession and the media, which was intrigued by the curiosity of a psychiatrist turning producer. Far-reaching publicity was achieved at no financial cost.
Keywords: Alcoholics Anonymous; arts; drama; public awareness.