Mack & Mabel, Northfield Musical Theatre Company, The Crescent Theatre

May 9 2008 By Paul Marston

IN THE build-up to this musical the company, celebrating its 80th anniversary, began to wonder if there was a jinx on the show.

Four members dropped out for operations on knees or feet, there was an outbreak of chicken pox and musical director Lucy Swift had to spend some time in hospital.

Then one of the leads, Aine Doyle, was run over on the way to rehearsals!

Fortunately she was able to appear, but it seemed the bad luck was continuing in this story of the silent movies when, on the second night, the canvas director's chair collapsed under Peter Walker, playing Mack Sennett, the robust undisputed king of comedy in the 1930s.

He landed in a heap, but was unhurt, and went on to give an outstanding performance as Stennett, whose on/off relationship with Mabel Normand forms the basis of the story.

Jill Hughes is a delight as Mabel, bursting with personality and singing superbly, but this musical lacks a bit of zip and flair. Ending tomorrow.