Plot Synopsis

Based on the play by Ronald Harwood. On a fateful night, backstage in a small regional theatre during World War II a a troupe of touring actors stage a production of Shakespeare's "King Lear." Bombs are falling, sirens are wailing, the curtain is up in an hour but the actor/manager, Sir, who is playing Lear is nowhere to be seen. His dresser Norman must scramble to make sure the show goes on but is unsure if Sir will turn up in time and if he does will he be able to perform that night? When he does arrive he's in a bad way and Norman tries valiantly to prepare him to go on stage. Although forgetful of his lines as well as who and where he is supposed to be, Sir is adamantly determined to perform. With a Herculean effort by Norman, Sir finally makes it on stage. A deeply moving story of friendship and loyalty as Sir reflects on his lifelong accomplishments and seeks to reconcile his turbulent friendships with those in his employ before the final curtain. THE DRESSER was first adapted for the screen by Harwood himself 33 years ago for the 1983 Peter Yates film starring Albert Finney and Tom Courtenay. This telefilm first premiered on BBC 2 October, 2015.