On a central square, the action of the musical comes to life as the world of Florence floats in – both a romantic, sweeping gesture and symbolic frame to see Italy through the eyes of Margaret (and Clara) and place focus on their emotional journey.

The design presents Florence as an-alluring new world of statues and stories in contrast to Margaret and Clara’s familiar 1950s North Carolina. Confronted by Clara’s independence, Margaret is forced to see her daughter as an adult and as she lifts her protective barrier, the world opens exposing the light of acceptance.