Wandsworth Arts Fringe – The Popess: Instructions for Freedom

A dark comedy solo show set in 13th century Milan, a true story of a feminist heresy.

Guglielma of Bohemia believed she was the second coming of the Holy Spirit. To make things worse, Guglielma also appointed a nun, Maifreda Pirovano, as her Popess.

These two mystics proclaimed the coming of a new era led by women, a time in which believers of any faith would be saved thanks to women.

The story is told through the eyes and the adventures of Everywoman who, accompanied by her friend Sybille, goes from heretical meeting to heretical meeting, seeking the true meaning of faith and freedom. Eventually, she finds what she is looking for in the Guglielmites, but soon the strength of her faith will be tested by the ruthless hands of the Inquisition.

In a time when women are ostracised, demonised, and persecuted, this is a true tale of an unprecedented attempt to bring women centre stage.

Putney High Street, London, England, SW15 1SN, United Kingdom