The musical was based on the book Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands by Brazilian writer Jorge Amado, published in 1966.

Set in Salvador, Bahia, the musical starts with the sudden death of Dona Flor's husband, Vadinho, who collapses in the midst of Carnival celebrations.

After a period of mourning, Dona Flor attracts another admirer, a local pharmacist, Teodoro.

While her new husband lacks the passionate sensuality of Vadinho, he compensates by providing a life free of worry.

It ran from December 25th 1978 to January 6th 1979, being cut short by a week due to poor reviews and low tickets sales.