Yorkshire, 1961. Jamie wants to study drama at RADA, something he knows would not be approved of by his Catholic Irish mother, Maureen. Jamie begins to take lessons for his audition in secret with Margaret, a relief teacher. Their relationship sparks jealousy from Jamie's girlfriend Sarah, then indignation from Maureen, who forbids the lessons to continue. Jamie's fate seems sealed; he has a powerful ally in his Auntie Bridget, however, whose own profound secret proves the turning point.