Evenings on a Farm near Dikanka

In a rural village close to Dikanka during the night before Christmas, a heartwarming tale unfolds when local blacksmith Vakula takes it upon himself to bring a special gift for his beloved Oksana. She is the daughter of wealthy Cossack Chub and, having heard of her captivating beauty, the capital's elite have their eyes set on Oksana. Determined to prove his love, Vakula embarks on an extraordinary mission; he rides a horse, believed to be possessed by the Devil himself, all the way from their quiet village to the bustling streets of St. Petersburg. His ultimate goal? To gift Oksana with a pair of delicate "cherrevichki," or little women shoes, made in the royal capital. The journey is filled with challenges and unexpected encounters that test Vakula's resolve and illuminate the lengths one would go for the love of another. This tale delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of human connection amidst a backdrop of cultural contrasts.