The play premiered on Broadway on October 19, 1944 at the Music Box Theatre in New York City, where it ran for 713 performances; it was produced by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.

The play revolves around the life of the Hansons, a loving Norwegian immigrant family, living on Steiner Street[1][2] in San Francisco at the turn of the 20th century.

Papa Hanson is a blue-collar worker; he and Mama attempt to raise their four children so that they understand the difference between right and wrong, between selfishness and selflessness.

Through their hard work, wise financial decisions, and creative common sense, Mama and Papa manage to raise and educate their children.

The play opened at the Music Box Theatre in New York City on October 19, 1944, starring Mady Christians, Richard Bishop, Joan Tetzel and Oscar Homolka.