Rollie Lynn Riggs was a prolific playwright whose works spanned full-length plays, short stories, poems, and a television script. His most celebrated play, brought to Broadway by the Theatre Guild, later served as the inspiration for a highly successful musical adaptation. Riggs' literary legacy lies in his ability to capture the spirit of his time and craft narratives that resonated deeply, leading to enduring cultural impact. His contributions to American theatre are marked by a powerful storytelling sense and a knack for creating works with lasting appeal.
The story follows Lorna Pashley, who escapes an abusive home life with her mother and younger sister, Maddie. As they navigate the challenges of their new life, themes of resilience, family bonds, and the quest for safety emerge. The narrative explores their struggles and triumphs as they seek to rebuild their lives away from the trauma of their past.
This evocative play charting the rocky romance between headstrong farmgirl Laurey and cocky cowhand Curley in a tale of early America during the settlement of the Midwest was the basis of the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! Using the colorful vernacular of the period, Green Grow the Lilacs paints a picture of pioneer farm life with colorful characters and language, presenting a dramatic challenge to professionals and amateurs alike.