IT'S a play about lesbians -- written by a man writes Doreen Crowther

Boston Marriage, a comedy of manners from celebrated American playwright David Mamet, gets its regional premiere at Bolton's Octagon Theatre tonight.

There is a kiss on the lips for the two main characters.

But, as one of them, Rebecca Charles, says: "There are moments when we come together, but there is no attempt to sell this as a lesbian play. There is a kiss, but there is nothing salacious about it."

Both Rebecca, who plays Claire, and Vivien Parry, who is Anna, prefer to concentrate on the nuances of the relationship than their characters' motivation.

Vivien says: " It is such a great play that is cleverly written. There is nothing gratuitous."

Anna and Claire are two scheming women who are on the fringes of upper-class society in the 1800s. Anna has become the mistress of a wealthy man and Claire has become infatuated with a respectable, young woman.

Although the play is very funny, Rebecca says, it has its moving moments. Like Vivien, Rebecca says she has no reservations about playing a lesbian. In fact Rebecca, who is married to an actor and has two children, has played a lesbian before. "I think: Is this a good play and is it worthwhile?" she says.

During rehearsals both actresses have been wearing long skirts and corsets as they will during the plays run. "I love period work", Rebecca says. "And getting into costume helps you to get into character."

Rebecca has appeared in theatres throughout the country. Her television credits include, Foyles War, Jonathan Creek, The House of Elliott, The Bill and Midsomer Murders. Her films include Shakespeare in Love, Mrs Brown and Bridget Jones Diary.

Both characters are on their uppers and Anna's way out is to find someone to pay for her and look after her.

Vivien is also married to an actor and has two stepchildren. She, too, has worked in the West End in Blood Brothers, Fame and Which Witch.

"Work in the West End is not superior," she says. "The only difference between the West End and regional theatre is the money." Her television credits include Lovejoy, Medics and The Bill.

Both Vivien and Rebecca are newcomers to the Octagon, as is the final member of the cast, Kellie Shirley, who plays the maid.

Another first-timer at the theatre is director Fiona Buffini.

Boston Marriage, which received its UK premiere in 2001, runs at the Octagon until May 3.