DAVE SIMPSON is an experienced, wellrespected writer who gave us the successful Girlsf Night Out.

This latest offering is about a group of women going to pole dancing classes and since the cast includes the generouslyproportioned Lisa Riley, the sheer physics of getting Ms Riley hanging upside-down from a steel pole was intriguing.

Agility, however, is not included in Lisafs contribution to this production. Her comic timing and likeable personality more than make up for any lack of dance skills, although I still find it distasteful to see women taking the ephwoarf attitude to men, complete with pelvic thrusting and facial contortions. Ifm sure thatfs just the character, though, and that in private life Lisa is a perfect lady.

My old-fashioned inhibitions aside, this is an entertaining way to spend an evening, with a plot as light as thistledown and repartee that has the mostly female audience laughing, as the characters share dance lessons and emotions, both sometimes painful experiences.

Lucy Rusedski, as instructor Gabby, is the only member of the company who seems remotely familiar with the art of pole dancing, although Julie Buckfield, deliciously irritating as tactless Tricia, is clearly a trained dancer.

The emphasis is on pole dancing for fitness and intensive tuition was provided to the cast by Polepeople International, who also provided the equipment.

The message is, if youfre a reluctant virgin, or you have an abusive husband or a terminal disease, pole dancing can make you feel better. And of course, sisters are doing it for themselves.

Until Saturday. Booking office: 01642-552663