From humble beginnings as a dancer in Caligula’s court, Messalina has risen to be one of the most famous and controversial figures in the Roman world. Since unexpectedly becoming Empress at the age of 19 she has shocked the populous with her countless affairs, scandalous parties and total disregard for public decency. But has the Empire’s first lady finally gone too far? A bigamous wedding and a botched attempt to overthrow the Emperor have left Messalina awaiting trial and possible execution… It looks like the party might be over.

By bringing this ancient story into the midst of a modern-day media circus, and by using classical forms to investigate contemporary themes, In Bed with Messalina hopes to show the cult of celebrity in a whole new light. It is the story of a young girl whose ambition and lust for fame is as recognisable and relevant today as it was two thousand years ago.