Details

Six years ago Pope Benedict XVI stunned the world by quietly announcing he would resign, the first pope in 700 years to do so. What drove this arch-conservative to break with sacred tradition and cede the way for Cardinal Bergoglio - a tango-dancing, football-loving reformer with the common touch - to become Pope Francis, one of most powerful men on earth? Together, Pope Benedict and Cardinal Bergoglio grapple with their complex pasts and uncertain futures. From coming of age under dictatorships in Germany and Argentina, to the scandal of sexual abuse by the clergy - they offer two opposing visions for the Church today. Shining a light into one of the world's most secretive institutions, The Pope is at once a candid portrayal of two men testing the limits of their faith and an exploration of the role of religion in an age of social and political upheaval. At its heart lies a timeless question: in moments of crisis, should we follow the rules or our conscience?

Cast/Performers

Anton Lesser (Pope Benedict XVI), Nicholas Woodeson (Pope Francis), Faith Alabi (Sister Sophia), Lynsey Beauchamp (Sister Brigitta)

Creatives/Company

Author: Anthony McCarten
Producer(s): Royal & Derngate, Anthology Theatr (in association with Tara Finney Productions)
Music: Anne Dudley
Director(s): James Dacre, Annelie Powell (CDG - casting director), Stuart Burt (CDG - casting director)
Design: Jonathan Fensom
Lighting: Charles Balfour