The assistant stage manager of a small-time theatrical company (Polly Browne) is forced to understudy for the leading lady (Rita) at a matinee performance at which an illustrious Hollywood director (Cecil B. DeThrill) is in the audience scouting for actors to be in his latest all-talking, all-dancing, all-singing extravaganza. Polly also happens to fall in love with the leading man (Tony) and imagines several fabulous fantasy sequences! The first presentation of this musical was in April 1953, and the first publoc performnance in January 1954. Ken Russell directed the film version in 1971, with Twiggy taking the leading role of Polly Browne.