Unravel a River Cruise Murder Mystery at Harlequin Theatre

A thrilling murder mystery awaits theatre enthusiasts as the Masterton Theatre Company (MTC) presents its latest production, The Cruise of a Lifetime. Set against the backdrop of a fictional river cruise on the Danube, the show promises an evening of intrigue, sumptuous dining, and audience participation. The event will take place at Harlequin Theatre on November 29 and December 6, starting at 18:00.

Guests will embark on a journey filled with suspense as they attempt to identify the murderer among a cast of eccentric characters. The plot thickens when one crew member mysteriously meets their end while travelling between Amsterdam and Budapest. This year’s event is designed to engage attendees with a mix of drama and comedy, as actors drop clues throughout the evening in a series of interconnected vignettes.

Event organiser and cast member Marilyn Bouzaid highlighted the popularity of the murder mystery nights, which have become a beloved tradition in Masterton over the years. Past productions have taken place in various settings, including weddings and conventions, but this year’s cruise theme was inspired by the rising trend of river cruises among local residents.

“It seems like everyone’s doing a European river cruise,” Bouzaid remarked. “I thought it would be perfect for a murder mystery night. We’re on a ship, so you’ve got a lot of big personalities in a small space. And, naturally, someone’s going to end up going overboard!”

Guests will enjoy a delightful meal while mingling with performers who embody a range of characters, from the meticulous captain to a charismatic Russian wellness influencer. Bouzaid, who plays an eccentric French tour guide, expressed excitement about the diverse cast, which includes both seasoned actors and newcomers.

The interactive nature of the evening allows the audience to engage directly with the characters. They can ask questions and gather hints, but not all answers will be straightforward. “We only have a few meetings as a cast before opening night,” Bouzaid explained. “The dialogue is all improvised, which adds a unique layer to the experience.”

Attendees will need to utilize their detective skills to solve the mystery of who killed Miss Scarlett, a cruise singer found dead on the upper deck with a locator beam. Bouzaid encourages all who are interested in theatre to participate, especially those who may not have extensive acting experience.

“The murder mysteries are always fun,” she said. “People enjoy the intimate setting, all the interaction with the characters, and, of course, the food. And there are prizes for whomever guesses the murderer correctly.”

Tickets for The Cruise of a Lifetime can be booked by emailing [email protected]. Mocktails will be served at the first event, and the bar will be open for the second evening. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a night of mystery and entertainment at the Harlequin Theatre.