The Life and Death(s) of Alan Turing

Composer: Justine Chen
Librettist: David Simpatico
Company: Chicago Opera Theater

Synopsis

After saving England in World War II by cracking the Nazi U-boat code, he was found guilty of gross indecency for a homosexual relationship. He chose chemical castration over imprisonment as his punishment. Two years later, Turing was found poisoned near a cyanide-laced apple with a bite taken from it. The apple is believed to be a reference to his obsession with Disney's Snow White, and the image is rumored to be the inspiration for Apple Computer's logo. Turing's mysterious death was labeled a suicide – but there are many other theories.