Frequently Asked Questions

What is an immersive/interactive mystery show?

In an interactive show, the audience members are allowed to interact (ask questions, discuss, etc.) with the actors during the show. Some audience members may even be given certain roles to play during the show. An immersive show puts the audience in the middle of whatever scenario is being performed through the use of decoration, props, ambient lighting, etc. And in a mystery show, the plot revolves around some sort of crime or puzzle that must be solved. Most of the Mystery Players shows and events are interactive mysteries, but occasionally we are given space to create immersive events as well.

How long is a Mystery Players show?

Most Mystery Players shows are 1.5 to 2 hours long. Solo Detective shows run a bit shorter, about 1 to 1.5 hours. We can also shorten our show for younger audiences or to fit into a certain time slot.

How does a Mystery Players show typically work?

The performers will usually arrive around 15 to 30 minutes before the show starts in order to get situated. Mystery Players shows allow for plenty of opportunities for your guests to participate. Every show starts with a prologue, where the actors (in character) will meet your guests and bring them into the world of the show. After the opening number, the show really starts, and your guests can interact with the actors in order to solve the mystery. Everyone will have a chance to submit their answer before the closing number, but it's not about who's right or wrong; it's all about having fun! (And just a note that in Solo Detective shows there is no music.)

What kind of audience participation is required?

We don’t require anyone to participate if they don’t want to! It’s all about having fun.

What is typically included in a show package?

Here’s a breakdown of our most popular show packages:
• A Solo Detective – 1 actor only
• A Little Mystery – 2 actors only, small speaker & microphone
• A Little More Mystery – 2 actors + 1 musician, small speaker & microphone
• A Regular Whodunit (our flagship package) – 4 actors + 1 musician, sound system & microphone(s), printed programs for each of your guests
• A Major Crime – 4 actors + 3 musicians, sound system & microphones, printed programs for each of your guests, scene-setting decor
• The Most Major Crime (all the bells & whistles!) – 7 actors + 3 musicians, sound system & microphones, printed programs for each of your guests, scene-setting decor

What can be added to a show package?

For an additional charge, we can add enhanced sound systems, programs, and scene-setting decor to any package that doesn’t already include them. We can also add performers to create custom packages. Other add-ons include ambient lighting, fog machine, and props for your guests. Want something in particular? Just ask!

Is gratuity for the performers included in the cost of service?

No, gratuity is not included and can be arranged with the performers directly. If you would like to include gratuity on your card, please let your booking agent know ahead of time.

Can I feed the performers?

If you are planning to serve food, you will be expected to provide the same or similar food to the performers as per your contract. You may elect not to feed the performers for an additional fee.

What mystery scenarios do you offer, and can I pick which one I want?

Yes, for most packages you can choose the scenario you want. Availability is somewhat limited for Solo Detective shows. Here are the scenarios we currently offer, as well as some scenarios soon to be released:
• Panic at the Speakeasy (1920s speakeasy)
• Groovy Times, Painted Crimes (1960s art heist)
• Murder on the Menu (billionaire dinner party)
• Holly Jolly Homicide (holiday)
• Game Over (1980s arcade)
• The Puzzling Life and Death of Lear Winslow III (inheritance mystery, coming soon)
• Murder Like It’s 1999 (1990s, coming soon)
• Killer Karaoke (coming soon)

Can the Mystery Players create a custom show for me?

We sure can! Contact us for current rates.

Can I make the event a surprise for the guest of honor or all of my guests?

While you can make your event a surprise, we do discourage surprises for our shows, as sometimes guests are resistant to being thrust into a mystery all of a sudden.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my event?

You may cancel or reschedule your event anytime before the show date. Your deposit and/or any money already paid is non-refundable. If you reschedule your event within one week of the show, a 20% rebooking fee will apply. Please refer to your performance contract for further details.

What do I need to provide for the performers?

Generally we require you to provide a comfortable place for the performers to change and get ready for the show (a “green room”. Note: A bathroom will not suffice.) We also need a small table to put materials on in the performance space, which should also have an area that is large enough for guests and actors to move around. If you are booking a show with musicians, there needs to be enough room for them to set up as well. Finally, we will need an outlet to plug our electronic equipment into. If your show is outdoors, we can provide a mobile dressing room for an additional fee.

I have a question that isn’t answered here.

Use our contact page or call (917) 310-4908 for all your other questions. We want to make your event the best it can be!