If you are looking for a different kind of show to watch in the theatre this month then this may one that you will want to go and see. On the 10th to the 15th December Lady Montagu Unveiled will be at the Kings Head Theatre. I spoke to writer and performer Thesy Surface to find out all about it.

Hello how are you, tell us about yourself?

Hey there, I’m great! Took a day off, got half way through my new book “Sonny Boy” (aka Al Pacino’s autobiography). What a read! Nice to get back to your acting heroes. As for me, I’m just a woman called Thesy, who got back into this crazy world they call theatre, after multiple stints in Film/TV. 

Tell us all about the show lady Montagu?

It’s a wild, funky ride. A biopic about an unsung lady of the 18th century. Old school meets new school. “Fleabag meets Marie Antoinette.” A woman who cavorts across globe. Fun, smart, witty, with many an eccentric character to keep the audience on its toes. It also makes you think… 

Why did you decide to create the show? 

I re-created the show from a more traditional version, written by the great Duncan Hopper. And once you jump on that train, you might as well carry on the ride. Especially when audience tell you it’s a hoot and you then bring some cool, new American director on called Julia Sopher. 

What can you tell us about you show in London this week?

Our December show will be Christmas themed. Our attempt at a “Vegas style” performance. We jump on the stage right after King’s Head’s “Cinderella” pantomime. No spoilers- it’s the same structure as the original “Lady Montagu Unveiled”- with amped up tinsel, humour and heart.

What is the most challenging thing about doing the show?

The amount of times the show has changed. Remembering which version I’m in. Accents galore. But that’s showbiz. That’s my job. That’s what I love.

What have been some of the best highlights since doing the show?

Audience reactions. A nice review, of course…but most of all seeing people afterwards coming up to tell me how much they loved it. Watching them tell other people about “Lady Montagu Unveiled,” or coming again- that’s been the highlight.

What is the best reaction you have had from an audience member?

When people from all generations compliment, which doesn’t happen often with other pieces. In Brighton- an 18 year old and 90 year old were adulating. Similarly an entire family said- “we’re gonna tell all our friends in London about this.” Different sexualities, a 16 year old, a 12 year old, their straight 50+ parents…all with genuine enthusiasm for what they saw. I get amped up by doing a piece that has that effect of bridging those generational and cultural gaps that usually have vastly different tastes.  

If people want to follow you on social media where can they find you?

@ladyunveiled on IG

@ladyunveiled on X (RIP Twitter)

“Lady Montagu Unveiled” on Facebook 

TikTok I believe we’re starting…hello, hello…watch this space. 

Finally in three words why should people come to your show?

Jam packed ride