The veteran People’s Artist of the RSFSR and a respected director, Vsevolod Shilovsky, spoke candidly in an interview with Express newspaper about his colleague Konstantin Khabensky. He noted that while the actor possesses undeniable talent, Khabensky may struggle with the broader responsibilities of leading the Moscow Art Theatre Chekhov. Khabensky has held the art director role at the theater since October 2021, steering its artistic vision through a period of noticeable transition and expectation.
Shilovsky argued that a theater head must keep the entire ensemble in clear view, place collective interests above personal ones, and actively shape the repertoire and staging. By his assessment, Khabensky often seems to prioritize his own roles and the involvement of close friends, which, in Shilovsky’s view, risks undermining the unity and strategic direction of the company. The critic emphasized that leading a prestigious stage requires a balance between personal artistry and organizational stewardship, a balance he believes Khabensky has yet to master fully.
Despite his reservations about management, Shilovsky also voiced a generally positive impression of Khabensky as an artist. He praised the actor’s range and presence on stage or screen, while urging improvement in administrative skills and team leadership to ensure the theater’s long-term success. The conversation reflected a broader discussion about the responsibilities of leadership in a classic repertory institution, where the artistic head must harmonize tradition, innovation, and the well-being of performers and staff alike.
In closing, Shilovsky’s comments touched on a familiar pattern in cultural leadership: talent behind the scenes must align with organizational needs to sustain a renowned institution. He suggested that Khabensky, with time and experience, could further develop the managerial aspects of the role while continuing to contribute creatively as an artist. The exchange highlighted the ongoing dialogue among peers about what makes a successful artistic director in a historic theater renowned for its Chekhov productions and contemporary relevance, and it underscored the high expectations placed on anyone entrusted with this legacy.