Slapstick Comedy Innovator Mack Sennett Opens Keystone Studios, Joins Fenway Park in Opening in 1912

by Ryan Chiavetta on Fri, Apr 20, 2012 at 1:33PM

Fenway Park first opened its doors on April 20, 1912, and over the course of 100 years, the ballpark has entertained countless Red Sox fans all around New England.

Of course, the opening of Fenway Park wasn't the only major event to occur that year. In fact, 1912 was a big year all over the world, especially in the entertainment business.

Mack Sennett took his love for the stage and created the famous Keystone Studios in 1912. The company is famous for its wild slapstick comedies that often featured crazy car chases and numerous custard pie fights.

Sennett, who lived in Northampton Mass., for a number of years, was instrumental in launching the careers of numerous famous performers. Some of those celebrities included W.C. Fields, Bing Crosby and the Keystone Kops.

These stars helped Sennett earn his reputation as one of the premier geniuses in comedy. His company was a big part in jump-starting the field of comedy in Hollywood.

Here are some of the aforementioned performers that Sennett helped launch into stardom, including W.C. Fields.