Actor Nicholas Rice Overcomes Injury to Star as Morrie Schwartz

On the opening night of the Winnipeg Jewish Theatre’s season, actor Nicholas Rice faced an unexpected challenge. Instead of taking the stage as Morrie Schwartz in the production of Tuesdays with Morrie, he found himself watching from the audience due to a serious injury. Rice had initially secured the title role based on his audition, but an incident prior to the performance forced him to step back.

In September, just days before the premiere, Rice attempted to assist his co-star David Sklar by finding an alternate entrance to his apartment. While navigating the situation, Rice decided to climb a fence to gain access. Unfortunately, the dismount resulted in a severely fractured heel, leading to a frantic call to director Mariam Bernstein as he realized the extent of his injuries.

“I said, ‘I think I have to go to emerg,’” Rice recalled. Bernstein urged him to call an ambulance, and despite the pain, he managed to quote Blanche DuBois as paramedics transported him to the Health Sciences Centre. Following a two-day stint in the emergency department, Rice was discharged but faced mobility challenges, requiring a scooter to get around.

Despite the setback, Rice’s connection to the role of Morrie Schwartz did not end there. After recovering, he staged a four-show run of his autobiographical fringe production in Toronto, which garnered attention from Marianne McIsaac, a theatre instructor at Toronto Metropolitan University. She recommended Rice for the role, leading to a Zoom audition with Chloë Rose Flowers, artistic director of the King Theatre Company, who cast him immediately.

Nearly a year after his accident, Rice returned to the stage, this time at the King Theatre for a two-week run. “I just feel so blessed,” he stated, dedicating his performance to his high school English teacher, Rudi Engbrecht. His journey reflects a powerful narrative of resilience and the opportunity for redemption, akin to the themes explored in Mitch Albom’s work.

The Winnipeg Jewish Theatre is set to continue its season with the Broadway hit Job, a psychological thriller by Max Wolf Friedlich, beginning on September 11. Featuring Dov Mickelson and Jada Rifkin, the production promises to engage audiences with its gripping storyline.

As the theatre community continues to rebound from disruptions, Rice’s return to the stage serves as an inspiring reminder of the enduring spirit of artists and their dedication to their craft.