ACTRESSES finding it difficult to get work have formed their own all-female theatre company.

The seven former Chiswick Arts Education School students have started FoxedUP Theatre, with their first production under way.

The decision was made because they were frustrated with the lack of parts available and the male domination of the theatre industry.

One member, Eleanor Lamb, 31, said: "After graduating in 2007, we realised there was a massive under-representation of women in the industry, not just as actors but in all areas, such as writing and directing.

"We decided to write our own play to give ourselves the parts we would like to have."

The group, which includes Chiswick women Leanne Ocean, from Acton Lane, and Lucy Barnett, from Chiswick High Road, will be debuting its play Priceless at the Camden Fringe in August.

It is a dark comedy, the story of a game show gone wrong - 'where corporate greed and financial desperation collide, with tragic consequences'.

Eleanor, who works as a Connexions adviser at Gunnersbury Boys' School, said: "We have timed it to coincide with the final series of Big Brother to make a point. It's a comment on how desperate people are for fame and money, and how ruthless producers can be."

The group hopes to continue producing plays and, if it finds some financial backing, eventually tour the country.

"We hope that more and more women can join us," said Eleanor, of Kew Road, Richmond. "Although in this play all the roles are female characters, we aren't averse to playing men, animals or women of all ages. That's why we got into acting."

Priceless is at the Roundhouse Studio Theatre on August 9 and 10. Tickets, at £7.50, can be booked by calling 08444 771 000 or visiting www.roundhouse.org.uk