In the turn-of-the century Oklahoma Territory on the brinkof statehood, the story unfolds in peaceful Claremore. Laurey and Curley fuss and fight and will not admit that they love each other. Ado Annie cannot decide between Will, a handsomerodeo rider, and Ali Hakim, a smooth, citified travelling peddler. Curley and Jud Fry, the rough-edged hired hand, struggle over Laurey's affections. All will be settled at the Skidmore social.