Everybody loves a good mystery. From classic characters like Sherlock Holmes and Hercule Poirot, to modern day tv shows like Psych and CSI, mysteries are making a huge splash in pop culture. This is seen in the rise of popularity of murder mystery parties, with do-it-yourself home kits, bookable theatre companies, interactive productions and corporate events. These parties go beyond theatrical performance to involve the audience in the solving, and sometimes the acting out, of the crime. The Mansfield area has played host to several smash hit Mystery Parties in the past year. Notable among these has been the Clue Game at Brownella Cottage, the 90th Anniversary Celebration: Murder Mystery at the Renaissance Theatre, and Murder at the Mansion hosted by Kingwood Center Gardens. Coming up next is the annual Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at The Ohio State Reformatory.
Last year, OSR featured “Murder at the Rutherford Mansion.” Guests to Lord Rutherford’s birthday party were greeted by his bereaved (tipsy and flirtatious) widow, a devious daughter, secretive maid and some other unruly guests. As events unfolded, characters made their way through the tables, telling secrets about the other guests and dropping clues. As each person tried desperately to sort through clues and prove their sleuthing prowess, they enjoyed a delicious meal, complete with dessert at the final moment of the evening when the murderer was unmasked.
This year’s story, Murder At The Black Rose, takes place in a 1920’s speakeasy. Guests are invited to a night in the roaring 20s, with cocktails, jazz and murder are the specials of the evening. Performances will span two weekends March 2-4, 9-11. Buy your tickets today for an interactive evening of mystery and crime solving while enjoying an exquisite 3-course meal, courtesy of Ed Pickens Catering. Whether you consider yourself to be good at mysteries, love a good murder or just want an evening of laughs, food and entertainment, head to the Ohio State Reformatory before they sell out! Reserve your seats today.
Look for more murder mystery fun in Richland County in 2018. Kingwood Center Gardens plans another Murder at the Mansion, complete with dinner and music on Oct 27th. Stay tuned for more details!