In real life, Judge Rickard Workman,
JD ’83, fits the role of an even-tempered purveyor of justice. But outside the courtroom, he transforms into characters of all type and temperament, from Willy Loman, the broken and exhausted traveling salesman in Death of a Salesman, to Antonio Salieri, Mozart’s envious nemesis in Amadeus.
Workman, an Allen County Municipal Court judge and amateur actor, believes community theatre is an ideal pastime for law professionals. “The two go together,” he explains. “They both require an understanding of human nature, mental discipline, listening skills and the ability to think on your feet.” Growing up, Workman developed an affinity for the performing arts, thanks to his father’s influence. He appeared on stage a few times in high school and college but didn’t begin nurturing his acting talent until much later when he resettled in Lima, Ohio, and embarked on a law career. During the last 20 years, he’s become a familiar stage presence in Northwest Ohio, delighting audiences in numerous productions at the Encore Theatre. His repertoire also includes a one-man act, impersonating a famed motivational speaker and humorist, the late E. Larry Moles.
10