[1] The movie is noted for its lavishly ornate costumes by Edith Head and its unique visual style influenced by technical advisor George Hoyningen-Huene.

In the 1880s, followed by bill collectors, the Healy Dramatic Company arrives in Cheyenne to play at the west’s grandest theater.

Tom Healy's troupe includes performers Angela Rossini, Della Southby, Lorna Hathaway and Doc Montague.

After a creditor arrives, Angela risks herself and the night's receipts in a poker game with gunslinger Clint Mabry but loses.

He breaks up the company and tells Angela to go back to her own place and that after selling the horses he will send her share of the money.

When she arrives, she assures Tom that she has settled with Mabry by mortgaging the theater and tells him that she signed the contract as Mrs. Thomas Healy.