This “Caligula,” making broad exceptions as to distance itself as far away from the ‘Penthouse Films’ movie as possible, will star Joli as Caesonia, wife of Caligula, and portray the infamous last night of the manic Roman emperor’s life, resulting in his assassination at the hands of his own senate.

Apparently Joli’s been living in New York and working as a burlesque dancer at the performance venue “The Box.” Her dancing is what lead the production heads to invite her to audition where she originally tried out for the role as Drusilla, Caligula’s sister. Ultimately she was brought back and thankfully given the role that required the most nudity. A definite win win for the audience and performer (she says she is admittedly more comfortable in the nude).

The play is going to run from March 12th to April 3rd, and I couldn’t be more upset that this isn’t happening here on the west coast. I am a huge fan of, not only the Bob Guccione produced film, but of Roman History as well. The story of Caligula is one wrought with sin, disease, debaucherous perversities and, ultimately, betrayal. Adding a personal favorite, Justine Joli to the mix is just mean and cruel. To see this in a live theater would be a phenomenal experience, me thinks.

In case you’re wondering if Joli is the first porn star to cross-over her way into live theater, the answer would sadly be, no. Savanna Samson beat her to it and is also a very determined thespian.

The film is directed by Kathryn Annelle, co-founder of Triangle Films. Is it just me or do women directors in porn just give a title, especially with an all female cast, more credibility? I am always much more interested when I hear about adult films being helmed, in one way or another, by women.

This highly anticipated title features Syd Blakovich, Melissa Monet, Dia Zerva, Marie Luv, Justine Joli and Ariel X.

The launch party happens this week in Hollywood, as does its self-distributed release.