Naked Truth, Lighthouse, Poole

CONFRONTED with the sight of Lisa Riley dressed for pole-dancing like a real life Beryl Cook comic character and the long, lean Lucy Rusedski (wife of tennis ace Greg) this feel-good comedy has us laughing from the outset.

But like the diverse female characters it portrays-brought together by pole dancing classes, appearances can be deceptive.

Whilst it fizzes along with bawdy, earthy often corny humour some serious issues come along to whack you in the face like a six-inch stiletto.

The lives of the women might seem poles apart but we see real friendship and camaraderie blossom through their hobby and their real lives laid bare.

The play explores serious issues like domestic violence, adultery, how women feel about their bodies, sex and coping with cancer.

Last night's audience was so swept up with emotion they felt impelled to shout out supporting the characters and by the end, having laughed and cried, were on their feet applauding an excellent cast.

Also starring other well known faces from the soaps with rousing songs like It's Raining Men and Wannabe, it's a great girls' night out. The final dance scene is knock-out!