Smoker celeb avoids Canada

2004-04-06 20:48

Toronto - Playwright Ronald Harwood, who pocketed an Oscar for The Pianist has stubbed out a plan to work in Canada because "draconian" anti-smoking laws will stop him lighting up.

Harwood was due to direct a revival of his 1980s hit The Dresser in Winnipeg next January, but had a rethink after running up against anti-smoking laws.

"I have recently visited Canada and had to suffer the most draconian anti-smoking regulations in restaurants and public buildings," Harwood told the Winnipeg Free Press.

"I had no intention of allowing myself to be forced out into the street in winter to partake of one of my great pleasures."

South Africa-born Harwood balked at the trip after receiving a contract which stated the theatre's no-smoking policy, the paper reported.

"What possible harm can there be to have a smoking section in a restaurant or an airport or a hotel?," he was quoted as saying.

'Have fought fascism all my adult life'

"The answer is none, but the viciousness of those who outlaw smoking knows no bounds, even to the extent, I have seen suggested, of exaggerating grotesquely the effects of passive smoking."

"I shall be 70 this year and have fought fascism throughout my adult life. I see no reason to stop that fight now."

Winnipeg, in the central Canadian province of Manitoba, has a ban on smoking in public places.

The Dresser tells the story of an ageing actor playing King Lear aided by his faithful valet.

Harwood won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 2002 with The Pianist.

- AFP