A musical love story

Book by Michael Stewart | Text adaptation by Francine Pascale | Music and song lyrics by Jerry Herman | German version by Frank Thannhäuser | Based on an idea of Leonard Spigelgass | The New York original production directed and choreographed by Gower Champion

Mack, the famous silent film director Mr. Sennet, reminisces in his old film studios in Brooklyn about his big star, who was also his big love: Mabel. This Mabel Normand stumbled into his studio rather accidentally, selling hot dogs. Mack immediately discovered her comic talent and hired her on the spot. She soon replaced Lotti Ames as main star of his slapstick films. Mabel brought the big success which opened the path to California. Mack fell in love with Mabel but could never admit this to her. Instead he showed the choleric film director side of himself, one who had no room for romantic. Eventually Mabel had had enough of his films with the same gags over and over again, and all the pies-in-the-face -- and of him. She went to the competition. After a new beginning between them failed as well, Mack started one last attempt to win Mabel back, but was unable to truly remain consistent. Now he is back here, where it all began, and has lost everything: The film world has become a new world since the advent of sound film. What pains him the most however is that he has lost Mabel for good. But has he really?

Mack and Mabel from the pen of the Hello Dolly composer Jerry Herman is a classic good-feeling musical with a lot of pep and swing. Even with all the comedy, the emotions are not neglected. The musical, first performed in
1974 on Broadway in New York, is, however, dangerous -- the main melodies are so catchy that you might find yourself dancing and whistling your way home