Albert Rudnitsky is a director and actor based in New York City. He spoke about directing “Crimes of the Heart,” which is being performed at the Jersey City Theater Center.
It was written by Beth Henley, and the Jersey City Theater Center produced the show in collaboration with Motherfather Productions. It is presented by Jersey City Theater Center.
Background on Albert Rudnitsky
He graduated from the Moscow Art Theatre University in 2007. From 2007-2011, he worked in Pyotr Fomenko theater. In 2016, he graduated from the Academy of Theatre Arts (GITIS) with a degree in directing.
In 2016, he was Artistic Director of the Sound Media Kids School. From 2014 to 2018, he was the Main Director of the International Stanislavsky Foundation. Prior awardees have included Anthony Hopkins, Ian McKellen and Ingmar Bergman.
His notable theatre director credits include: “The Nose” (Taganka Theater), “Anima Chroma” (Union Foundation), “Old Woman” (Main St Theatre), “Marriage” (The State Theatre of Nations), and “Homemade Dynamite” (NY Theater Festival).
His short films have received recognition from a number of international and Oscar-qualifying festivals.
Most recently, he worked as script supervisor and dialogue consultant on Sean Baker’s “Anora,” for which Mikey Madison won the “Best Actress” Oscar.
How did it feel to direct “Crimes of the Heart”?
Directing “Crimes of the Heart” was both exciting and challenging because I come from a completely different background, while this play is well-known to American audiences and actors.
I had to thoroughly understand the script and grasp the nuances that might be hidden to someone who didn’t grow up in the American South during that era.
Even though the play immediately inspired and resonated with me after the first reading, it still presented a certain challenge.
I’m very grateful to my actors for trusting me and being willing to take on this challenge with such openness and dedication.
What did this show teach you about yourself?
This experience reminded me how essential enthusiasm and love are for creating a performance. It’s impossible to be creative in theater if you treat it purely as a job without passion.
At the same time, achieving a high-quality result requires consistent, disciplined work from both the actor and the director.
For example, a director cannot come to rehearsal without a clear plan and specific vision, while an actor must be ready to explore and respond to new proposals.
It’s this balance of passion and preparation that makes theater truly come alive.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology, and social media being so prevalent)
Nowadays, theater stands out even more because it is a living art form—a direct dialogue with the audience that happens in the moment.
In some ways, it’s more challenging, as I believe the digital age has shortened attention spans.
On the other hand, technology offers exciting opportunities to experiment with multimedia elements, opening up new creative possibilities for storytelling on stage.
What do your plans for the future include?
After “Crimes of the Heart,” we’ll begin post-production on a 45-minute pilot for a mini-series.
We’re also considering a few theater offers, but I’m trying not to look too far ahead just yet. I want to stay present and focused on the creative process at hand.
Congrats on being a part of the Oscar-winning movie ‘Anora,’ starring Mikey Madison, and directed by Sean Baker… How did that recognition feel?
Honestly, it felt surreal. Working with Sean Baker and such a dream team was an incredible honor.
Seeing “Anora” win an Oscar was a beautiful validation of everyone’s hard work. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What is your advice for hopefuls who wish to go into the entertainment industry?
If you feel vulnerable and afraid, take it as a good sign—it means it truly matters to you. It means you’re on the right path. Be patient, take risks, and believe in yourself.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but strive not to repeat them. Be ready to fail—it’s the only way to grow.
What would you like to tell our readers about “Crimes of the Heart”?
I believe “Crimes of the Heart” is like a mirror—many people who experience the play will see parts of themselves reflected in this timeless and beautifully messy family drama.
It captures the complexities of human relationships in a way that feels both intimate and universal.
To learn more about actor and filmmaker Albert Rudnitsky, follow him on Instagram.
