It is not often that audiences are given the task of becoming part of a production, but Dramsoc’s Dinner and Death is a game from the very start – and like any good game – it requires active involvement from willing and strategic players.
Likened to a real-life game of Cluedo, the production offers an evening of crime-solving fun, and it is no surprise that this engaging spectacle is back by popular demand and will once again be staged at the Alexander Playhouse from January 31 to February 2 from 7pm.
While the newest rendition of the play will see brand new characters come to life, the aim of the thrilling production-turned-game remains the same – search the theatre, solve the crime.
As a murder plot unfolds, audiences will have to Sherlock their way through the mystery, with the puzzling production providing all the intrigue and excitement of a real-life investigation.
Greeted by a “nervous” house manager and an “annoyed” director, the cast and crew give patrons subtle hints as soon as they walk through the theatre doors.
But only a true CSI whizz will pay attention to the series of suspicious looks, shady back-stage deals and whispered quarrels to find the real murderer.
As the crime story unfolds, patrons are treated to a tasty, creative and exotic three-course meal prepared by chef Dale Benson.
The show commences with the opening scene of My Fair Lady after a decadent dessert is served, but it’s not long before a loud bang rings through the theatre, lights flash and screams fill the auditorium.
Guided by the director, audience members are asked to visit the murder scene before being sent off scurrying through the theatre to find the killer.
A complicated web of personal vendettas, lies, and motives unravels and reveals itself after an intense few rounds of questioning and while some detectives are closer to the truth, others are left pondering.
It is clear that much of the production is not scripted, but the actors do a stellar job of improvising and staying in character while undergoing continuous and sometimes harsh interrogation.
Spinning their stories, actors will send patrons on a wild goose chase through every room and backstage corner of the theatre, and if a quick game of guesswork or a typical night out at the theatre is what you had in mind, Dinner and Death is not it.
It’s a game of critical thinking, problem solving and enthusiasm and requires strategic and thorough investigating to piece the evidence together and catch the murderer.
Tickets are available from Lee Gold Music at R160 per person...