Stage Beauty

Synopsis

Humble Maria, who outfits top London theater star Ned Kynaston, takes none of the credit for the male actor's success at playing women. And because this is the 17th century, Maria, like other females, is prohibited from pursuing her dream of acting. But when powerful people support her, King Charles II lifts the ban on female stage performers. And just as Maria aided Ned, she needs his help to learn her new profession.

Release date

03 Sept 2004

Directed by

Richard Eyre

Runtime

1h 50m

Cast

Claire Danes

Maria

Billy Crudup

Ned Kynaston

Derek Hutchinson

Stage Manager

Mark Letheren

Male Emelia/Dickie

Tom Wilkinson

Betterton

Ben Chaplin

George Villiars, Duke of Buckingham

Hugh Bonneville

Samuel Pepys

Fenella Woolgar

Lady Meresvale

Richard Griffiths

Sir Charles Sedley

Clare Higgins

Mistress Revels

Rupert Everett

King Charles II

Tom Hollander

Sir Peter Lely