Unravel a Whodunnit at Masterton’s Murder Mystery Dinner

A thrilling murder mystery unfolds at the Harlequin Theatre as the Masterton Theatre Company (MTC) presents its annual dinner event, featuring the production titled The Cruise of a Lifetime. Set aboard a fictional river cruise boat, the story immerses guests in a world of intrigue, where one crew member meets a tragic end while traversing the River Danube.

The event will take place over two Saturdays, on November 29 and December 6, with doors opening at 18:00. Attendees can anticipate an engaging evening complete with a sumptuous meal and the chance to play detective, identifying the killer among a cast of vibrant characters. This year’s narrative revolves around a diverse group of crew members, each with their own motives, as they navigate the treacherous waters between Amsterdam and Budapest.

Event organiser and cast member Marilyn Bouzaid shared insights about the unique format of the evening. Guests will enjoy interactive scenes that reveal clues through a series of vignettes performed by the actors. The show culminates in a guessing game where the audience must deduce the murderer, their method, and their motive.

This murder mystery tradition has been a cherished feature of community theatre in Masterton for many years. Bouzaid noted that past events have featured a variety of settings, including weddings and crime writing conventions. The decision to adopt a cruise theme was inspired by the rising popularity of river cruises among local holidaymakers.

“It seems like everyone’s doing a European river cruise,” Bouzaid remarked. “I keep hearing about people booking one for their next holiday. I thought it would be perfect for a murder mystery night.” The enclosed atmosphere of a cruise ship, combined with the potential for conflict among larger-than-life personalities, provides an ideal backdrop for a gripping storyline.

This year’s production features a cast of ten performers, blending seasoned actors with newcomers. Each character embodies a unique persona, including the meticulous captain, a lively entertainment officer, cabaret singers, and an array of eccentric tourists. Bouzaid herself portrays a quirky French tour guide, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the ensemble.

The evening promises plenty of interaction, with cast members mingling with guests before dinner. They drop hints about their characters and engage the audience, creating a lively atmosphere. “It’s a lot of fun, as we get to schmooze, in character, with the audience before dinner,” Bouzaid explained.

Most of the dialogue will be improvised, allowing for a spontaneous and entertaining experience. While the actors have a general understanding of the plot, their interactions will vary from night to night, keeping the event fresh and exciting.

As the audience prepares to uncover the mystery of who killed Miss Scarlett, the cruise singer, attendees are encouraged to book tickets early. The Cruise of a Lifetime offers a delightful combination of suspense, comedy, and culinary delights, making it an unmissable event for theatre enthusiasts and mystery lovers alike.

Tickets can be booked by emailing [email protected], ensuring a spot at this engaging evening of entertainment.