Asia TOPA: A woman with white face makeup and long white hair, dressed in ceremonial clothing, sits surrounded by non-denominational religious objects.

The Female Pope

Presented by Asia TOPA, Arts Centre Melbourne

The Female PopeRakini Devi

You are invited to an audience with The Female Pope.

Dates

2728 February 2025

Venue

Smorgon Family Plaza, Arts Centre Melbourne

Witness Rakini Devi 's powerful transformative performance, inspired by the 10th-century Pope Joan and The Hindu Goddess Kali. This free performance protests misogyny and challenges traditional gender roles in society and religion.

Throughout this three-hour interactive performance, you can experience The Female Pope through meditative encounters and offer personal petitions.

Asia TOPA is the eighth presentation and incarnation of The Female Pope. This entrancing performance has been presented in Uppsala, Sweden, New York, Mexico City, Helsinki, and Sydney. Inspired by ancient ritual, Devi embraces contemporary interpretations of female iconography interweaving convention and culture with art and activism.

Note: One-on-one interactions are not suitable for children.

Image: Derek Kreckler, 2022, AGNSW, Monumental