7 Tips on How to Effectively Mingle During Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

7 Tips on How to Effectively Mingle During Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Murder mystery dinner theater begins with mingling. Mingling is when the actors talk to the audience before the show begins. The object of this is two fold. First, to help you understand the background of the characters and their relationships with each other. And, second, to bring you into the world that we have created. We have compiled a list of 7 tactics that will help you become part of our world, give you a leg up on the competition and make your friends believe that you moonlight as an amateur detective.

1. Be involved.

The actors will try to engage you. Talk back to them and make them perform for you. Interactive shows can be a little strange if you've never experienced one before, but they are a blast if you jump in with both feet. Don't be afraid or intimidated by the actors. Almost anything you do will be received well, as long as you are not offensive. Pretend the actors are long lost friends and enjoy the ride.

2. Be receptive.

Respond naturally to the actors. The actors will talk to you longer if you are receptive to them.

3. Ask questions.

If you want to solve the murder then you will need to start asking questions from the beginning. Ask the characters about their background. Why are they there? What is their opinion about the other characters? Who do they like? Who do they hate? What do they like to do in their spare time? This is a great chance for you to get insight into the characters and see what they are like so you can watch for more specific things during the performance (Hint: Don't ask about the murder. The characters will have no idea that a murder will be happening and they won't answer any question to that end until it actually happens in the progression of the show. So, just don’t do it.)

4. Dress up.

Come dressed up in a costume that fits the theme of the show. You don't have to wear a whole costume, but perhaps a hat, shirt, dress or some additions that fit the theme. This will help you to become more involved.

5. Come with a group of friends.

When you are with a bunch of good friends you are able to relax a little more. You are more comfortable interacting and being involved.

6. Don't take offense.

Remember that the actors will be flirty and try to involve you. Don't take offense to this, but embrace it. If the actor feels you are timid about them they will likely move on to someone else as they do not want to offend.

7. Enjoy yourself.

Remember that we are here to entertain you. This is a show, enjoy it. Be a part of it.

Do these things and you will have a great time during mingling and maybe even win a prize when you solve the murder. Let us know some of the things that you have done during mingling in the comment section below.

*Special thanks to April Tritchler and Andrew Lenz for helping me put together this list*