Not long ago, and without saying a word, a group of pioneering film-makers changed the world. Helped by heroes in capes, and girls tied to the tracks, they made stars out of street kids, and riches from rags.

But for writer, director, producer and owner of Keystone Motion Picture Studios Mack Sennett, forging a film is the easy part - compared to working, and falling in love, with a stunning one-off like Mabel.

This dazzling musical comedy is both a poignant love story and a riveting tribute to the grit and glamour of the era of silent movies.

Based on the true romance between Hollywood legends Mack Sennett and Mabel Normand, Mack & Mabel received eight Tony Award nominations when it opened on Broadway in 1974. Music and lyrics are by Jerry Herman (La Cage aux Folles) and the book by Michael Stewart (Barnum, 42nd Street), the multi award-winning team behind the classic Broadway musical Hello, Dolly! This thrilling tale of trailblazers and stars is widely admired for its outstanding score including hits I Won’t Send Roses and Time Heals Everything.

Olivier Award-winner Michael Ball returns to Chichester to play Mack Sennett, following his celebrated performance in Sweeney Todd (2011). His other recent credits include the BBC drama That Day We Sang and Hairspray in the West End and on tour.

Rebecca LaChance makes her Chichester debut as Mabel. Her recent credits include Betty and understudy Carole in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical on Broadway and Johnny Baseball directed by Gordon Greenberg.

Artistic Director Jonathan Church’s most recent musical hits for Chichester include the award-winning Singin’ in the Rain (2011).

Listen to Jonathan Church in conversation with Kate Mosse about the production.

Rebecca LaChance is appearing with the permission of UK Equity, incorporating the Variety Artistes' Federation, persuant to an Exchange program between American Equity and UK Equity.