Monday, March 29, there will be a murder with over 60 witnesses, all dressed in Roaring ‘20s attire, who will be required to solve the deadly deed. Antelope Valley College is hosting its first Murder Mystery Dinner in celebration of Spring Fest.
The faculty and students are invited to participate in what Liset Varela said “will be a really fun night to investigate and socialize with students and faculty.” Varela should know: she has been in charge of planning the event since last fall’s Homecoming, among many other Student Development activities.
Despite no previous murder mystery nights on campus, the idea of the event seems to have caught on. As of this writing, spaces are limited and are being filled quickly. Those working on the project are not only hoping for a good turnout, but expect an engaging audience willing to participate in the game.
Both faculty and students are expressing enthusiasm.
“Dr. Zimmerman [department head of Student Development] is really excited about this event,” said Anna Becerra, who has helped to plan the project.
Participants can expect to walk into an illegal gambling den of the era, where they will encounter a deadly surprise. Each guest is expected to dress appropriate to the gangster-ridden era.
The 1920s fashion for both men and women was quite distinct. Women wore long pearl necklaces, flapper dresses, evening gowns and boas. Men donned zoot suits, black or white ties on black shirts, and gangster hats.
During the Murder Mystery, cue cards will be given out to guests, so they can participate along with the 20 committee members. The committee’s inside knowledge will help solve the murder, although guests are going to be just as involved in its solution.
This event revolves specifically around “The Murder at the Four Dueces,” an online game that offers advice on setting up your own murder mystery for profit.
Dinner will be served at the game, with lots of appetizers and a special mystery dessert. Despite the Prohibition-criminal theme, alcohol will not be served. There will be cider, however, as well as other non-alcoholic libations.
Along with the murderous dinner, there will be prizes given for best actor/actress and best dressed. The 1920s casino-themed night will be held in the SSV Boardroom 151 at 7 p.m., and is expected to last two-to-three hours.
Murder mystery nights at other colleges have yielded profitable results. AVC’s Murder Mystery Night, however, is a nonprofit celebration for students and faculty to socialize in a safe environment.
– By Jeremy Tompkins and Katherine Maritz
