Augie, an actor in late middle-age, understudying the role of KING LEAR, is at the theatre to rehearsing when he is joined by his wife Anna, also an actor. As they work, they learn Augie will be going on at the next performance. Suddenly fearful that the monumental role is no longer within his power, Augie faces a paralyzing crisis as Anna fights to stop her husband from committing career suicide, but together, husband and wife come to grips with what may be final chapter of their enduring, loving relationship.