ONE of East Lancashire’s newest theatre companies is offering a “unique” opportunity for an actress.

Creative Fabula Theatre Company is looking for someone to play the lead role of Ruth Ellis in its production of The Thrill Of Love.

The play is based on the true story of the last woman to be hanged in Britain and takes a new look at the “real” woman behind the headlines and at the events that drove her to murder.

A divorcee with a young child to care for, Ruth worked in the kind of nightclubs where there was more than just a drink on offer. The girls worked hard, played hard and dreamed of a movie-star life.

Then she met the wealthy, womanising David, a racing driver with whom she became obsessed. Fame came but not in the way she imagined.

Why did their relationship end in murder? Why did she plead not guilty but offer no defence? Why did she show no remorse? And who was she trying to protect?

Creative Fabula says the play “offers an interesting, creative and fresh outlook on this controversial case through snappy and gritty dialogue”.

Rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7.30pm until 9.30pm. The rehearsal process is a “quick turnaround” of six weeks.

Creative Fabula director Lauren Stirzaker said “We are looking for a strong female actor to play this fantastic part.”

Anyone interested needs to look between 25 and 35 and be small, slim and blond in order to realistically portray the femme-fatale image for which Ruth was best known.

Lauren said: “The play is a brilliant opportunity, as the way we work at Creative Fabula nurtures actors into becoming stronger performers.”

The play will be performed at Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre on June 12 and 13. Anyone interested in reading for this part should call Lauren on 01254 398319 or email lauren@civicartscentre.co.uk.