Mack & Mable
Mon, 18 Mar 2002, 03:13 pmcrgwllms11 posts in thread
Mack & Mable
Mon, 18 Mar 2002, 03:13 pmCan't do a particularly in-depth review, as I didn't buy a programme, and I'm afraid I'm not even sure of the name of the amateur company that put this on, at the Sutherland Entertainment Centre in the southern suburbs of Sydney....so my apologies to those concerned.
But for a community theatre performance, this would have to be one of the strongest I have seen in a long time, particularly for its production values.
I went along to see my friend Kim DeLury in his first musical production, in the lead role of Mack. He showed a commendable command of the genre, possibly because it was also a strong acting/narrator role. The woman who played Mable was also very strong - the role being not quite as demanding character-wise, but requiring her to belt out some big show tunes, and she seemed more at home in the big, Broadway style.
It always seems funny to me to hear Aussies putting on the American accents, but in the case of most Broadway musicals (and particularly this one, being based on true characters) there doesn't really seem to be any other option; and they were all pretty polished and consistent so it worked fine.
The ensemble and the many character roles were all of a very high standard; it was obviously quite competitive to be cast in this show, with no weak links to speak of. But what most impressed me was the attention to detail that was placed on costuming such a large cast, the design of the set (incorporating appropriate film footage of the Keystone Cops and other Mack Sennet silent movies), and the excellent orchestra of about 20 pieces. I hadn't been expecting that sort of quality from what I had been led to believe was "a small community theatre production" - I wouldn't have called it small!
I don't believe I'd even heard of "Mack & Mable" - is that just my ignorance? There are several good catchy songs and the story is surprisingly coherent compared to many musicals. (Again, perhaps because it is based on a true relationship?) Surprising too, that it has a rather down-played ending, yet it all works very well.
A very tight, impressive, well directed production, in a marvellous venue. It left me feeling that there's certainly no limit as to what can be achieved in community theatre.
Cheers
crgwllms
<8>-/====/----------
But for a community theatre performance, this would have to be one of the strongest I have seen in a long time, particularly for its production values.
I went along to see my friend Kim DeLury in his first musical production, in the lead role of Mack. He showed a commendable command of the genre, possibly because it was also a strong acting/narrator role. The woman who played Mable was also very strong - the role being not quite as demanding character-wise, but requiring her to belt out some big show tunes, and she seemed more at home in the big, Broadway style.
It always seems funny to me to hear Aussies putting on the American accents, but in the case of most Broadway musicals (and particularly this one, being based on true characters) there doesn't really seem to be any other option; and they were all pretty polished and consistent so it worked fine.
The ensemble and the many character roles were all of a very high standard; it was obviously quite competitive to be cast in this show, with no weak links to speak of. But what most impressed me was the attention to detail that was placed on costuming such a large cast, the design of the set (incorporating appropriate film footage of the Keystone Cops and other Mack Sennet silent movies), and the excellent orchestra of about 20 pieces. I hadn't been expecting that sort of quality from what I had been led to believe was "a small community theatre production" - I wouldn't have called it small!
I don't believe I'd even heard of "Mack & Mable" - is that just my ignorance? There are several good catchy songs and the story is surprisingly coherent compared to many musicals. (Again, perhaps because it is based on a true relationship?) Surprising too, that it has a rather down-played ending, yet it all works very well.
A very tight, impressive, well directed production, in a marvellous venue. It left me feeling that there's certainly no limit as to what can be achieved in community theatre.
Cheers
crgwllms
<8>-/====/----------
crgwllmsMon, 18 Mar 2002, 03:13 pm
Can't do a particularly in-depth review, as I didn't buy a programme, and I'm afraid I'm not even sure of the name of the amateur company that put this on, at the Sutherland Entertainment Centre in the southern suburbs of Sydney....so my apologies to those concerned.
But for a community theatre performance, this would have to be one of the strongest I have seen in a long time, particularly for its production values.
I went along to see my friend Kim DeLury in his first musical production, in the lead role of Mack. He showed a commendable command of the genre, possibly because it was also a strong acting/narrator role. The woman who played Mable was also very strong - the role being not quite as demanding character-wise, but requiring her to belt out some big show tunes, and she seemed more at home in the big, Broadway style.
It always seems funny to me to hear Aussies putting on the American accents, but in the case of most Broadway musicals (and particularly this one, being based on true characters) there doesn't really seem to be any other option; and they were all pretty polished and consistent so it worked fine.
The ensemble and the many character roles were all of a very high standard; it was obviously quite competitive to be cast in this show, with no weak links to speak of. But what most impressed me was the attention to detail that was placed on costuming such a large cast, the design of the set (incorporating appropriate film footage of the Keystone Cops and other Mack Sennet silent movies), and the excellent orchestra of about 20 pieces. I hadn't been expecting that sort of quality from what I had been led to believe was "a small community theatre production" - I wouldn't have called it small!
I don't believe I'd even heard of "Mack & Mable" - is that just my ignorance? There are several good catchy songs and the story is surprisingly coherent compared to many musicals. (Again, perhaps because it is based on a true relationship?) Surprising too, that it has a rather down-played ending, yet it all works very well.
A very tight, impressive, well directed production, in a marvellous venue. It left me feeling that there's certainly no limit as to what can be achieved in community theatre.
Cheers
crgwllms
<8>-/====/----------
But for a community theatre performance, this would have to be one of the strongest I have seen in a long time, particularly for its production values.
I went along to see my friend Kim DeLury in his first musical production, in the lead role of Mack. He showed a commendable command of the genre, possibly because it was also a strong acting/narrator role. The woman who played Mable was also very strong - the role being not quite as demanding character-wise, but requiring her to belt out some big show tunes, and she seemed more at home in the big, Broadway style.
It always seems funny to me to hear Aussies putting on the American accents, but in the case of most Broadway musicals (and particularly this one, being based on true characters) there doesn't really seem to be any other option; and they were all pretty polished and consistent so it worked fine.
The ensemble and the many character roles were all of a very high standard; it was obviously quite competitive to be cast in this show, with no weak links to speak of. But what most impressed me was the attention to detail that was placed on costuming such a large cast, the design of the set (incorporating appropriate film footage of the Keystone Cops and other Mack Sennet silent movies), and the excellent orchestra of about 20 pieces. I hadn't been expecting that sort of quality from what I had been led to believe was "a small community theatre production" - I wouldn't have called it small!
I don't believe I'd even heard of "Mack & Mable" - is that just my ignorance? There are several good catchy songs and the story is surprisingly coherent compared to many musicals. (Again, perhaps because it is based on a true relationship?) Surprising too, that it has a rather down-played ending, yet it all works very well.
A very tight, impressive, well directed production, in a marvellous venue. It left me feeling that there's certainly no limit as to what can be achieved in community theatre.
Cheers
crgwllms
<8>-/====/----------
Walter PlingeTue, 19 Mar 2002, 08:18 am
RE: Mack & Mable
It may be worthwhile to note that the Limelight Theatre in Wanneroo will be performing their version of Mack and Mabel in June.
Alan!
Alan!
Walter PlingeWed, 20 Mar 2002, 11:10 am
RE: Mack & Mable
Hi there
The amateur theatre company that performed Mack & Mable in Sydney are called the Miranda Musical Society.
The lead male is actually a NIDA graduate - so there are no surprises there that he was so good! I had also heard good reports of the female lead (though I didn't see the musical myself).
I have recently been in a show myself where we had to perform with American (of the south) accents. It is difficult to understand them from the audiences perspective, but also complicated to perform accurately from the actors point of view also!
There is some very high quality amateur/community theatre productions coming out of Sydney, from both Musical Societies and Theatre Groups. I encourage you to see more if you live in Sydney!
The following website will guide you as to what productions are on and which are coming up.
http://showline.showbizweb.net.au
The amateur theatre company that performed Mack & Mable in Sydney are called the Miranda Musical Society.
The lead male is actually a NIDA graduate - so there are no surprises there that he was so good! I had also heard good reports of the female lead (though I didn't see the musical myself).
I have recently been in a show myself where we had to perform with American (of the south) accents. It is difficult to understand them from the audiences perspective, but also complicated to perform accurately from the actors point of view also!
There is some very high quality amateur/community theatre productions coming out of Sydney, from both Musical Societies and Theatre Groups. I encourage you to see more if you live in Sydney!
The following website will guide you as to what productions are on and which are coming up.
http://showline.showbizweb.net.au
crgwllmsWed, 20 Mar 2002, 03:08 pm
RE: Mack & Mable
Just to add to my "review" above, - I found out the company in Sydney was called the Miranda Musical Society.
Worth keeping an ear out for their next show.
Cheers,
your roving reporter
crg
<8>-/=====/-------------
Worth keeping an ear out for their next show.
Cheers,
your roving reporter
crg
<8>-/=====/-------------
Walter PlingeSat, 23 Mar 2002, 12:09 am
RE: Mack & Mabel
Sorry, I know that is really petty but I couldn't take it any longer! (
It's a Bernadette show after all.... Yay for Bernadette).
It's a Bernadette show after all.... Yay for Bernadette).
Walter PlingeSun, 31 Mar 2002, 01:17 pm
RE: Mack & Mable
The Wanneroor Rep production is being directed by David Gale and the choreography by Dixie Lee Harris.
Get along to this production if you are interested in this show, the Limelight shows are always a great standard.
Get along to this production if you are interested in this show, the Limelight shows are always a great standard.
Walter PlingeSun, 31 Mar 2002, 01:17 pm
RE: Mack & Mable
Our production of "GYPSY" to be staged at the Bridge Theatre in July is looking for 2 more dancing boys aged between 16 - 27ish. Any level of dance experience is ok. The choreo is amazing and well worth being a part of. There are also a couple of small straight acting parts availible for the lads too. If you are interested in any (or both!) of the above, please call Grant on 0413 588 428 asap.
Regards,
A1S1.
Regards,
A1S1.
Walter PlingeTue, 27 Sept 2005, 03:57 pm
Mack & Mable at Miranda Musical Society Maarch 2002
Craig Williams (I am guessing) -
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site. I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator (with Coralie Broadhurst) for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one! they were well worth the $5.
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNET and his frequent leading lady, MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by Leonie Johnson (a regular MMS member).
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer, Kerry Jackson.
Kim De Lury was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site. I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator (with Coralie Broadhurst) for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one! they were well worth the $5.
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNET and his frequent leading lady, MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by Leonie Johnson (a regular MMS member).
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer, Kerry Jackson.
Kim De Lury was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Walter PlingeTue, 27 Sept 2005, 04:46 pm
Re: Mack & Mable
Hi Craig Williams (I am guessing),
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site during our latest production of The Sound of Music.
I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator, with Coralie Broadhurst, for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time - so thanks for your kind words - it means a lot to us.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one at the very low price of $5!
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNETT and his frequent leading lady (and lover), MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by the very talented Leonie Johnson, a regular MMS member.
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director for Mack & Mabel was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer was Kerry Jackson (all MMS regulars).
Kim De Lury was a delight to work with and he was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Anne P-B
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site during our latest production of The Sound of Music.
I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator, with Coralie Broadhurst, for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time - so thanks for your kind words - it means a lot to us.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one at the very low price of $5!
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNETT and his frequent leading lady (and lover), MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by the very talented Leonie Johnson, a regular MMS member.
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director for Mack & Mabel was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer was Kerry Jackson (all MMS regulars).
Kim De Lury was a delight to work with and he was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Anne P-B
Walter PlingeTue, 27 Sept 2005, 04:49 pm
Re: Mack & Mable
Hi Craig Williams (I am guessing),
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site during our latest production of The Sound of Music.
I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator, with Coralie Broadhurst, for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time - so thanks for your kind words - it means a lot to us.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one at the very low price of $5!
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNETT and his frequent leading lady (and lover), MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by the very talented Leonie Johnson, a regular MMS member.
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director for Mack & Mabel was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer was Kerry Jackson (all MMS regulars).
Kim De Lury was a delight to work with and he was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Anne P-B
Better late than never! I have only just heard about this site during our latest production of The Sound of Music.
I have been associated with Miranda Musical Society for 38 years and I am the society's archivist. I was co-costume coordinator, with Coralie Broadhurst, for Mack & Mabel. Coralie and I went to great lengths to costume the show, especially because it was set between 1911 and 1932 and the fashion changed quite dramatically during that time - so thanks for your kind words - it means a lot to us.
I was also programme biographer (and seller) and I am disappointed to hear that you didn't even buy one at the very low price of $5!
Mack & Mabel is a true story based on the relationship between two of the pivotal figures of the silent film era - slapstick comedy pioneer MACK SENNETT and his frequent leading lady (and lover), MABEL NORMAND. Mabel Normand was played by the very talented Leonie Johnson, a regular MMS member.
MMS prides itself as being one of the leading amateur (we prefer to say non-professional) societies in NSW and perhaps Australia.
The director for Mack & Mabel was Roseann McDonald, musical director was Jim Anderson and choreographer was Kerry Jackson (all MMS regulars).
Kim De Lury was a delight to work with and he was a wonderful Mack and brought that 'special something' to the role. Mack & Mabel was Kim's first leading role in a musical and MMS was delighted to welcome him. Mack Sennett would have been proud!
Anne P-B