Nikolai Gogol was a Ukrainian playwright known for blending realism with the grotesque and satirical, often addressing 19th-century social and political issues. The Mariinsky Theaters production of Rodion Shchedrins opera Dead Souls, based on Gogols novel, features vivid characters and a mix of operatic and folk singing styles that enhance the narratives depth. The audience reaction was enthusiastic, praising the innovative staging, strong vocal performances, and emotive set design.