MACK SENNETT? He just makes movies... And that in a nutshell is what Mack and Mabel running at Blackpool Grand Theatre this week is all about, writes Sarah Sharp.
But, simply to say that, misses out on the charm and downright enthusiasm the Premier Theatre Company brought to the tragic true tale of Mack Sennett and Mabel Normand.
The show belongs to Philip Cohen as movie director Mack who makes two-reel melodramas and is damned proud of it.
But the money men aren't happy and closure looks likely. Then gawky deli-maid Mabel (cutely played by Lorraine Burch with Shirley Temple curls and what sounds like a mouthful of gum until she lets loose in the rousing number Look What Happened To Mabel) stumbles onto his set and a star is born.
Jodie Moore is impressive as Lottie Ames and delivers a big performance to match her big voice, while the dancing girls really go for it with big numbers and even a glittering tap section entitled Tap Your Troubles Away complete with spangly costumes.
There were even real movie clips from the silent era to the delight of the audience.
Mack and Mabel is also raising funds for the Macmillan Windmill Appeal and patrons Roy Barraclough and Danny La Rue graced the stage before curtain up to thank the audience for their support and wish the cast well.
Mack and Mabel runs at Blackpool Grand Theatre until Saturday (June 17) with tickets from £8 available from the box office on (01253) 290190.
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