In April 1932, according to the decree of the Central Committee of All-Russia Communist Party (of Bolsheviks) “On reformation of literary and art organizations” numerous groups, schools and unions in all kinds of art were liquidated. The term “socialist realism” had already been put into practice. A campaign against “formalism” is just about to be launched. This is when the impudent “Hamlet” appears at the Vakhtangists. The performance gave rise to a furious reaction. Slashing reviews neighbored on the enthusiastic ones. Western critics wrote that such “Hamlet” would cause a furor in Europe. Everyone admired the wonderful music by Shostakovich, the excellent acting of Shchukin — Polonius, Orochko — Gertrude and especially Simonov — Claudius. “Hamlet” was on for about a year and then it was removed. An expressive example of “formalism” was required, and this label was eventually stuck to this performance.