A NEW comedy set in a pole dancing class and starring five popular actresses provides the perfect girls' night out for Dorset women this week.

The Naked Truth is a heartwarming tale of a group of women who bond during pole dancing lessons and help see each other through the crises that beset their lives, ranging from breast cancer and domestic violence to body issues and lighter topics.

At times bawdy and poignant, but also uplifting, the play stars a host of well-known former soap actresses. There is Lisa Riley (the larger than life star of Emmerdale, Fat Friends and You've been Framed), Julie Buckfield (Grange Hill and Hollyoaks) and Gemma Wardle (Family Affairs and Life On Mars).

They will be sharing the stage with Samantha Seager and Jayne Tunnicliffe from Coronation Street and tennis commentator Lucy Rusedski.

The five characters come from very different backgrounds but they find a common cause as they struggle to learn pole dancing for a breast cancer charity event.

The Naked Truth is written by Dave Simpson, creator of hit comedy Girls Night Out.

He says: "This is a poignant and uplifting comedy, a call to all women and celebrating strength through adversity. It's a show for women, about women, that men absolutely must see - if they dare!

"If you were touched by Calendar Girls and amused by the clumsy manoeuvres of Stepping Out you'll be splitting your sides and moved to tears by this drama."

Dave added: "These women are not victims, they're successful survivors who decide to put two fingers up to conformity and learn to pole dance. For health, confidence, charity. You too can do your bit to support breast cancer sufferers by joining in the hilarity, by relating to the real life dilemmas of being a real woman in the 21st century, by getting your ticket to see The Naked Truth."

The Naked Truth is at Lighthouse in Kingland Road, Poole, from tomorrow until Saturday, June 7.

Performances are at 7.30pm and there are 2.30 matinees on Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets cost £14.50 for the first night, then £17.50 evenings and £14.40 matinees. Call 0844 406 8666 for bookings and full details.