Show Synopsis:
Mack Sennett, a silent movie director, reminisces about the era of the silent film while talkies are taking prominence in the cinema. He flashes back to when he discovered the silent film star Mabel Normand and she fell in love with him. Although they sleep together, Mack is hesitant to enter a relationship with her. Mabel wants to do more serious films and argues with Mack over offers from another director, William Desmond Taylor. Mabel returns to Mack's studio and he agrees to produce a serious film for her, but finds it is difficult to create something that is not funny. Mabel returns to Taylor, who persuades her to use heroine to forget her problems, and her reputation is slowly ruined. Mack discovers movies with sound and starts to create another star out of the young Lottie. Taylor is murdered, Mabel is the prime suspect, and Mack wants to reconcile with her, but Mabel dies. Mack imagines a happier ending for the audience.	

Character:
Mack Sennett, a singleminded movie producer who loves comedy.

Song Context:
Mabel and Mack are starting to develop feelings for each other and Mack does not believe he has the time or inclinations for a romantic relationship.	

Fun Facts:
1) The plot of this musical was based on the real-life relationship between Mack Sennett and Mabel Normand. 
2) Robert Preston originated the role of Mack on Broadway and was nominated for a Tony Award and Drama Desk Award for his performance. 
3) The real life Mack Sennett was often called "The King of Comedy."