The same year, the musical was produced by CSC Repertory Theater in New York, directed by Tazewell Thompson.

Blessed with a gift of song and a voice that thrills and delights the entire community, Abby is brought up in the bosom of the church and under the watchful eye of Mother Vera, a folk-healer.

Trembling Sally, whose children were destroyed by the same storm in which Abyssinia was born, hears Abby sing and begins to torment the young girl by challenging her beliefs.

Abyssinia's withdrawal affects the devastated community like a long drought while Trembling Sally continues to tempt her with dark thoughts.

At the play's conclusion, Abyssinia finds her voice again, overcomes Trembling Sally and rejoins the community.