A collection of six stories by Nikolai Gogol, adapted by Jim Poyser and starring Griff Rhys-Jones and Stephen Moore.

Mr. Poyser’s adaptations stick to the original stories, but add a touch of madcap comedy.

The Two Ivans – In a sleepy Russian town, a careless insult changes the lives of two neighbours.

The Overcoat – A humble Russian civil servant’s career is stuck in a dismal rut until he buys a new coat.

Ivan Fyodorovich Shponka and His Aunt – Home from military service, Ivan finds his aunt’s efforts to marry him off intolerable.

The Nose – Major Kovalyov’s nose vanishes and reappears in St Petersburg disguised as a councillor.

The Mysterious Portrait – St Petersburg’s most high-minded young artist makes a pact with the devil.

The Diary of a Madman – A civil servant’s dull existence is transformed when he overhears two dogs talking.