It is the 1920s, Mama Rose wants her daughters Louise and June to be stars. Jocko is rehearsing his Kiddie's Show . With just a little money, she pleads to Grandpa, she can sweep the girls to stardom in Los Angeles. Grandpa won't sell his gold plaque from the railroad company, but that's no problem to Rose.
Time passes and the troupe reach New York.
Because of the depression times are hard. Herbie wants Rose to give up the act and marry him, but she says he must wait until her girls are stars. You'll never get away from me'', she sings. He offers to make June an actress on condition that Rose keeps away from her. They journey on.