Stage Beauty

In 17th century London, Ned Kynaston is at the top of his craft for his portrayal of the great heroines of the English stage. Women are forbidden by law to act, but Ned's dresser, Maria, hides a secret passion to play the roles Ned has become famous for. Charles ll's mistress Nell convinces the King to change the law, and suddenly Maria - who has been performing secretly - can now act on the legitimate stage. Ned, no longer able to ply his trade, is coaxed into teaching her to play the role of of Desdemona.