The Popess: Instructions for Freedom

A real remembering of thinkers who were airbrushed out of memory by their own era's papacy for misogynist reasons. Not to be remembered was part of the cruelty done to them. Involving the audience as a congregation, including a couple of contemplative questions that brought our own spiritual feelings into the portrayed scene, then as prisoners of the Inquisition, so that we actually live the followers' position. Really nicely done, a spiritual experience itself.

This show is moving, emotionally deep and super funny at the same time, thanks to Elena’s great storytelling. Different from any other show I’ve seen!

A true story that is brought to life beautifully by the engaging and mesmeric Elena, this was a thought-provoking show, playful, challenging, extremely relevant to today's world and did I mention it's really funny too?! Fantastic, go, see and enjoy.

"The Popess" is a captivating exploration of a little-known chapter in Italian history: the Guglielmite sect of 13th Century Milan, led by two women who dared to challenge the patriarchal structure of the Church. This dark comedy solo-show delves into the fascinating story of Guglielma of Bohemia, considered by her followers to be the second coming of the Holy Spirit, and her appointed successor, Sister Maifreda, who takes on the mantle of Popess.

Elena's performance is truly the heart of this production. Her portrayal is both powerful and deeply convincing, bringing to life the conviction and struggles of these women who dared to envision a female-led spiritual era. You can feel the depth of research that has gone into crafting this play. It sheds light on a historical anomaly while raising timeless questions about the intersection of religion, faith, and power.

While the subject matter is serious, the play is laced with well-placed humour, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining experience.

Highly recommended.

Elena’s show is brilliant with an original and very interesting concept, and she’s a wonderful actress ! Highly recommended!

I really enjoyed this show. Very interesting content and the artist is very talented and funny. Highly recommended!

Somewhere between theater and lecture, Popess is a compelling story told with humor and commitment. I was grateful for the comedic relief offered in between probing spiritual questions and historical reflections. The simplicity of the show let the content and actress shine.

Elena Mazzon is a skilled storyteller. Switching effortlessly between engaging characters, while telling an interesting story based on a hidden history. Fully recommend.

I loved that the story is based on real historical facts and delivered with a mix of humour and reflective moments.
One actor on stage shifting seamlessly through multiple characters and building the picture of a world filled with religious corruption and the search for something purer.
I would definitely recommend!

"Popess" was one of the most satisfying shows I've seen at EdFringe 2024. It was challenging, active, energetic, and made me want to be a better person. I was tremendously moved by this work and plan to see it again.

A superb piece of writing inspired by a little known piece of Italian medieval history... If the story itself wasn't already intriguing enough, Elena's storytelling is compelling and interactive, with the perfect balance of humorous moments, some hilarious audience participation (nothing too daunting, don't worry!), and the unexpected and poignant emotional punch in the gut...

A very engaging solo theatre piece telling the story of a heretical woman leader in medieaval Italy, which is told in a very contemporary manner.

What an incredible story! Engaging, fun but most importantly makes you discover about what I would describe as a feminist heresy. Highly recommend, I'd see it again!