The ensemble and the three main characters are introduced during the surreal prologue: Finn McCool (a non-dancing role played by Tony Kemp), high king of Ireland; Diarmuid (Colin Dunne), captain of the Fianna—Finn's army; and Grania (Jean Butler), Finn's betrothed.
Diarmuid continues to drill the Fianna and Grania hosts pre-wedding celebrations for the ladies of the court.
They break free and an enraged Finn calls upon them and the women of the court to seek out the lovers.
The story is based on the Fenian tale The Pursuit of Diarmuid and Gráinne (the original spelling of "Grania"), but many important details have been changed.
Changes were made to the order and execution of the dance numbers before the show opened in New York, where it received highly favorable reviews.
Despite the good press and advance sales for the Canadian premiere in Toronto, the show was unable to continue touring due to debts generated in London.