ABOUT
Max is an actor, composer, and voiceover artist based in NYC,
born and raised in Rochester, NY.
His theatrical performances have earned recognition from BroadwayWorld reviewers, and his most recent musical work
was commissioned by performers from the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.
Max holds a Bachelor of Music in Composition from
Nazareth University.
"I put energy, truth, and compassion into all of my collaborations, and embrace the wonders of
all things storytelling."
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
Acting work | Original Music
IN THE PRESS
Theatrical Reviews
The company is led by the excellent Maxwell Ruscio as Emmet Otter. I have been fortunate to see Mr. Ruscio in West Side Story as Tony and as Joe Pesci in Jersey Boys at OFC, as well as his portrayal of Toby in Blackfriars’ production of Sweeney Todd. He is very natural on stage and one of the most versatile young actors around town. Not only is he amiable but very appealing; I always look forward to seeing him in shows. Max as Emmet brings a boyish earnestness and innocence to the role. You just want to hug him."
- Buffalo Rising, Anthony Higgins
"Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas Strikes a Merry Chord in Rochester"
Joy Del Valle, who plays Maria, was an alternate for the role on a recent international tour of the show. (Maria's lover Tony, who tragically crosses the racial line, is played by Max Ruscio, a last-minute cast replacement - a recent college graduate new to Rochester theatre whom director Eric Johnson calls "a budding star."
- Broadway World, Blair Ingenthron
WEST SIDE STORY Comes to OFC Creations
Theatre Center
In addition to presenting heartfelt themes and challenging vocal numbers, “Godspell” also has moments of great comedy, brought to life by a multitude of cast members but particularly Max (Max Ruscio), whose physical comedy and gift for voice work adds a layer of comic relief to a show heavy with parables and weighty themes..."
- Broadway World, Blair Ingenthron
"Blackfriars Theatre Delivers a Spirited Take on GODSPELL"
Cornelius Hackl (Tyler Hardwick) and Barnaby Tucker (Maxwell Ruscio), who run off to the city, mirror the women’s quest for love and fulfillment. It is not quite a battle of the sexes setup, but conventional ideas around marriage and femininity are sent up. Mr. Ruscio as Barnaby, the goofy teenaged sidekick to Cornelius, damn near steals the show. Not only is he a terrific dancer, but he is naturally funny and has a gorgeous singing voice. Ruscio and Hardwick sound glorious in the numbers they sing together, and they have a great older/younger brother chemistry that is palpable. I believe I may have said this before, but Ruscio is instantly likable and always manages to capture the audience’s attention.
- Buffalo Rising, Anthony Higgins
"Elaine Hendrix Leads a Radiant Hello, Dolly! at OFC Creations"
