MEDIATHEK

This production of Gogol's "Government Inspector" is the tenth in a line in the history of Alexandrinsky Theatre. The comedy had its premiere there in 1836 and the author himself was involved in the preparations for the performance. Tzar Nicholas I was present at the premiere on 19th April, "he laughed a lot" and he openly admitted that everybody got their share, and he perhaps the largest one. The "governmental drama" became the most frequently staged play in Russian theatre.

Valerij Fokin: "I fell under Gogol's spell long ago in my early childhood, absolutely and forever. I love him, he represents an important part of our lives and indeed a kind of encyclopaedia of Russian life. While working on 'The Government Inspector' I experienced both joy and fear. It was no coincidence that Mejerchold said the director had to pay extra money to be able to stage this play."
(by Valerij Fokin)

12th International Festival Theatre Pilsen Booklet (Printed Edition