Works of Mykola Gogol on the Ukrainian Theater Stage: Evolution of Artistic Understanding and Adaptation

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to explore the evolution of artistic interpretation and stage adaptation of Mykola Gogol’s works in Ukrainian theatrical art. The research methodology includes historical-cultural, comparative, and art analysis, which allows for identifying the evolution of directorial approaches in the staging of Gogol’s motifs. The study is based on the analysis of scholarly works, memoirs, reviews, and theatrical productions, which made it possible to trace the development of directorial decisions regarding Mykola Gogol’s works. Scientific novelty lies in identifying changes in the interpretation of Gogol’s themes within the context of Ukrainian theatre, as well as in characterising the creative experiments of theatre directors. Conclusions. The literary legacy of Mykola Gogol is an essential part of the Ukrainian theatrical process. Timeless in nature, it is capable of reflecting both tradition and innovation, proving that it is not an archaic inheritance, but a living and flexible medium that can enrich contemporary theatre with new meanings and forms. The representation of Mykola Gogol’s creative heritage on the Ukrainian theatre stage has undergone noticeable transformations over nearly a century. These changes were significantly influenced by political events, ideological dominants, and the cultural background of each historical period. Today, the theatrical portrayal of Gogol not only includes romanticized ethnography but also reflects a postcolonial perception of the reality depicted in his works. Currently, Ukrainian cultural space presents Gogol’s legacy as part of the national cultural heritage, cleansing it from Russian ideological interpretations. Today, the artist’s works are staged in various forms – from classical performances to experimental theatre, where modern technologies allow the audience to immerse themselves in Gogol’s world of imagery in entirely new ways.