Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1137604
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 30 JUNE 2019 7 CULTURE THEATRE learned so much just by observing what they're doing during rehearsals and taking it all in. Apart from be- ing very talented, the whole team is wonderful so we've also been bond- ing over a few good laughs. What drew you to Pope Joan? CG: For me, Joan's story throws light on a critical point – histori- cally speaking, and we`re talking 9th century here, science and faith had a complicated relationship where one was deemed as witchcraft and, the other, as ignorance (which would have gotten you fuming at the stake!) Joan's intervention brings an alliance where science and faith work hand in hand – the physical and the meta- physical if you will. Even today, in certain areas, that divide is still pal- pable. MM: There were a number of rea- sons namely: working with an excit- ing new script that tells an intrigu- ingly true historical story the message of which still resonates today, having the opportunity to play three differ- ent roles, being part of a great cast in this first English production of the play and working with director Irene Christ for the first time. AW: Everyone somehow knows or has heard of Joan's story, and so had I when I heard about Teatru Malta's production. But there is so much more to it, myth or not; it's a story about resilience and fighting for what you believe in, straight till the end. AA: Knowing that it's the story of a woman who managed to become Pope thanks to her brilliant mind and determination was already enough to attract me to the show, as I'm a strong believer in equal opportuni- ties for men and women and in the empowerment of women in a male- dominated world, especially when it comes to top positions of power. Coupled with the direction of Irene Christ who has a wealth of experi- ence in the theatre, both locally and abroad, as well as the named actors in the cast, being part of the production was an honour for me. Finally, who is the Pope Joan audience member? CG: Well, this is a tough one - but let's see. I guess anyone who believes in their calling, equally fuelled by that ambition that is constantly kept in place through humility. It is also one that defies power (be it political or physical) to alleviate the suffering of the other. Many come to mind, from Moviment Graffitti, to Carola Rackete and her defiance of Salvini. MM: Anyone interested in a good fast-paced historical drama. AW: Anyone who enjoys an epic story that is funny, charming, and heartbreaking yet heartwarming must see this show. History enthusi- asts, art enthusiasts, thinkers and cu- rious people...or anyone who enjoys a sunset, a glass of wine and a beautiful performance in lovely Mdina! AA: I think everyone will enjoy the story, the music, the acting, the cos- tumes and sets. The show will be more of a unique experience rather than your traditional night at the theatre because it's set outside at the beauti- ful Mdina ditch. If you're after theatre experiences, this one's for you! POPE JOAN opens from the 6th of July until the 12th at the Mdina Ditch as part of the Malta Inter- national Arts Festival. This show is based on the novel by Donna Wool- folk Cross in the stage version by Susanne Felicitas Wolf and is made possible with the support of Festivals Malta, Arts Council Malta under the auspices of the Ministry of Justice Culture and Local Government, the Restoration Directorate Rehabilita- tion Project, Goethe Institute, US Embassy and The German Maltese Circle. For €20/€18 TICKETS or more information visit kultura.mt is a cast Chris Galea Antonella Axisa