Leading actor recast in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? due to medical issue | Canada Voices

Just days before opening night, Canadian Stage has recast a leading actor in the company’s coming production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?.

In an e-mailed statement to The Globe and Mail, a representative for the theatre company said Mac Fyfe, who was cast in the role of Nick in Edward Albee’s classic play, stepped away from the production last week due to an unspecified medical issue. Actor Rylan Wilkie will take on the role for the foreseeable future.

“At this time, it’s uncertain whether Mac will be able to return,” reads the statement. “If he is unable to do so, Rylan will continue in the role for the duration of the run.

“As with any employee, Canadian Stage cannot share medical or health information, but we can share that Mac is recovering, and his well-being remains our priority.”

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? has enjoyed a unique amount of marketing buzz and publicity due to its cast, which until now has been made up of two real-life couples: Paul Gross and Martha Burns, and Fyfe and Hailey Gillis.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is set to open at Toronto’s Bluma Appel Theatre on Thursday. According to Canadian Stage, Wilkie has rehearsed through the production’s tech week and into the weekend to learn the role.

“Like any community or workplace, theatre people face the unexpected challenges of life – illness, emergencies, and personal circumstances that require flexibility,” said Canadian Stage in their statement. “We are grateful for the dedication of everyone involved in bringing this production to life.”