Papal Candidate Papstin, accompanied by Sandy Mölling, in the Spotlight
"The Popess of Fulda" makes her grand entrance tonight (13.06.25), as the long-awaited stage production hits the city. Pop- star-turned-actress Sandy Mölling takes on the lead role of Johanna, who becomes the first female Pope.
Originating from Fulda itself, the musical "The Popess" is the latest masterpiece from the local production house "spotlight musicals". Based on the dramatic novel by American author Donna Cross, this show tells the tale of Johanna's journey through the medieval era, disguised as a man, and her unexpected rise to the highest seat of the Catholic Church.
Sandy Mölling ascends the throne in Fulda
Having already performed "The Popess" in Stuttgart back in 2019, Sandy Mölling is back on the Fulda stage for the world premiere. With a history of frequent appearances at the renowned Bad Hersfeld Festival, Sandy will continue her reign here aswell, starring as the lead in the upcoming production "Wie im Himmel," set to premiere on July 25th – similar to last year.
Mölling: "I simply had to"
In an exclusive interview with HIT RADIO FFH, Sandy Mölling revealed that she didn't hesitate for a second when offered the role of the Popess. "I just found myself utterly captivated by Johanna and her story. This character embodies an unyielding female strength, and the songs are magnificent to perform - powerfully melodic and emotive. Every element resonates, making it my favorite German musical for a woman to play. Few musicals in Germany offer as strong a female lead role, and this one is undoubtedly the strongest in my opinion," Sandy explained.
While researching the historical figure of Pope Joan is challenging due to a lack of concrete evidence, several works of fiction, such as Donna Cross's novel "Pope Joan," have been inspired by the intriguing legend. This captivating tale of a woman conquering the Vatican throne has proven to be an entertaining and thought-provoking exploration of gender roles, power, and deception in the Middle Ages.
- Sandy Mölling will not only captivate the Fulda stage with her striking portrayal of the Popess, but will also present her powerful vocals in the musical "Wie im Himmel," scheduled to premiere on July 25th.
- Inspired by the intriguing legend of Pope Joan, Sandy Mölling admits that she wholeheartedly embraced the lead role in "The Popess," finding the character's embodiment of female strength and the melodic songs to be her favorite in a German musical.
