Mack & Mabel

Published Wednesday 25 May 2005 at 14:00 by Julie Watterston

What a show! The Watermill Theatre Newbury has excelled itself in this demanding stage musical, which is adapted for the limitations of this quaint stage with skilful direction and a superbly versatile cast.

With a cast of eleven, director John Doyle and assistant director Graham Hubbard creatively choreograph the actors in their musical ensembles and dance routines so that the stage is a whirling dervish of upbeat movement, which vanishes equally well when the plot requires a more moderate tempo.

David Soul captures the essence of Mack Sennett with an excellent portrayal of the empathetic movie maker whose flawed character is the tragedy behind his own sadness and the demise of his leading lady, Mabel Normand. As Mabel, Anna-Jane Casey gives a sublime performance as the silent movie star with perfect musical theatre timing, outstanding vocals and real stage presence. The rest of the talented cast of actors/musicians work well in the supporting roles to create a delightful musical.

Mark Bailey’s set is multi-faceted, with a two storey cage reminiscent of Chicago and a white curtain that separates the backing musicians when required and acts as the big screen for Sennett’s old two-reeler movies.