Just the F.A.Q.s for VAMP’s PRIVATE Murder Mystery Shows:
Private shows include corporate events such as awards dinners, retirement parties, fundraisers, picnics and holiday parties. Private shows also include special events such as birthday parties, reunions, anniversary parties, showers, organizational functions, holiday get-togethers, etc.
1) What is a murder mystery dinner show?
This is a very popular type of dinner show, usually combined with a 3-course meal. Audience members solve the murder by watching for clues throughout the evening. VAMP can personalize some shows to include references to your company, fundraiser or special event. Just let us know when you schedule a show.
2) Do you travel?
Yes! VAMP has performed throughout the Midwest for wineries, educational foundations, sororities, banks, service organizations, corporate functions and family events. We are ready and willing
to travel.
3) What type of room or location do you need to perform?
VAMP has performed at country clubs, restaurants, auditoriums, banquet facilities, conference rooms, outdoor stages, large home setting, it really depends on where you are holding your event. Our actors do perform in FRONT of the audience. We do not wander around the room. We stay in one area where everyone can see and hear us. At our home base, White Owl Winery, there is a stage. (If you are interested in holding your event at the winery, contact joy@vampshows.com for more information.)
4) How many people can you perform for?
We have performed for groups of 20 up to groups of 300. The size of the group is up to you.
5) Are the shows suitable for all ages?
Our shows could be rated PG-14. Shows contain mature topics such as infidelity, blackmail and of course, murder. There are some sexual innuendos. There is no “descriptive” or “bad” language in our dialogue. We are never graphic in words or deeds. But, in general, our shows are designed for adults with adult humor.
6) How do we select a show?
Read through the list of shows available on our Murder Mystery show page. A short description of each show, along with optional show suggestions, is given. Holiday themed shows always work best during that season. Our fundraising show, MURDER AT THE FUND-RAZOR, or BEDLAM in CABIN B may be tailored to become a holiday show. Let us know what you’re interested in and we’ll offer some suggestions.
7) How does the evening progress?
A typical murder mystery dinner occurs as such:
When you are seated for the show, you will find your clue sheet on which to keep notes and your show program with character information and more clues.
Act One sets up the characters and location. If this is a dinner, the salads are made available before or after this act.
Act Two really gets to the “heart” of the matter. This is where the majority of clues are given out and a murder may occur. The entrees are served just before or after this act.
Act Three is when the characters present their alibis. Get those clue sheets filled out. They will be collected after this act. Dessert is served before or after this act.
Act Four is when the murder is solved and prizes are awarded.
VAMP awards prizes for the correct deducer, the best dressed in the theme of the evening and the best audience actor.
If you are holding a fundraiser or are including a silent auction our performers will incorporate these announcements into the performance.
The evening usually lasts about 3 to 3.5 hours, depending if you offer appetizers and/or a cash bar at the beginning.
8) Does everyone have to take a part in the show?
No. Our shows do not require half the audience to be involved. We will ask you for the names of three to five audience members who would enjoy coming up front and helping us out. There is no preparation required. All that is required is that they read what they are handed. Although the audience will be voting for the best/hammiest audience actor at the end of the evening, just relax and have fun!
9) What do we provide and what does VAMP provide?
You provide:
Promotion for your event
A performance area in front of the audience
A separate, accessible room for changing and props
Use of lighting and electrical services for the room
Access to the room before the show for the setting up of props and sound equipment, if needed.
A meal for each actor, the stage manger and assistant
VAMP provides:
The actors
A Stage manager to answer questions for the client, location staff and to assist the actors
All props and costumes
Clue sheets, pencils and show programs
Sound effects and production music (when called for)
Prizes for the correct deducer, best audience actor or ham, and best dressed in the theme of the evening (if pertaining to themed show.)
10) How do we hire VAMP?
Click on the Schedule A Show button and fill in the information about your event. Please be as specific as possible. Once your information is received, you will be contacted regarding what type of show, the location, number of attendees, show selection, etc. We cannot quote you a price until we know the above information. After your questions have been answered, you will receive a contract to sign and return, along with a small percentage of the performance fee. The remainder of the fee must be paid the night of the performance. All payments must be made by check.
Just dying to schedule a company or private show?
