The Murder Mystery Company
The Murder Mystery Company is a nationwide theater troupe in the United States that specializes in interactive murder mystery dinner theater entertainment in both public and private show environments.[1] It was founded in 2002 by Scott R. Cramton with local shows in Grand Rapids, MI and has since grown significantly. In June 2012 The Murder Mystery Company had public venues in twelve cities,[2] by September of the same year the business had grown to nineteen venues in fifteen separate states. In July 2016 The Murder Mystery Company had public venues in thirty-six cities in twenty separate states.
History
Scott R. Cramton, the company's founder, decided to form an improv group of local actor friends (initially calling themselves Grimprov) to perform his scripts as small party entertainment. With the demand for their performances growing and in an effort to promote shows outside of the state of Michigan, Scott renamed his troupe, and in 2002 The Murder Mystery Company was born.[3]
Frame work
The Murder Mystery Company's main offices are located in Grand Rapids, MI.[3] Using local actors in their public performances and hiring local directors, the company establishes hubs of operation in cities throughout the United States.
Public shows
Public shows are held in a variety of venues including restaurants, banquet and conference facilities, and theatres. Shows last about 2 1/2 hours during which the audience enjoys a multi-act interactive murder mystery while being served a three course meal.[1]
Private shows
The Murder Mystery Company offers private parties for both large and small groups. Private shows are held at an establishment of the customer's choice. They also offer customizeable events such as corporate functions, birthdays, engagement parties, and themed children's parties.
"The appeal of the Murder Mystery Co. lies in the unique framework of theatrical entertainment that is largely improvisational and encourages audience participation."[4]
References
- 1 2 Hollander, Maiah." Murder-mystery show helps Ugandan orphans", Mukilteo Beacon, Mukilteo, 30 May 2012. Retrieved on 11 September 2012. (subscription required)
- ↑ Surach, Melissa." Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Comes to Jersey City, ’80’s Style", Jersey City Independent, Jersey City, 28 June 2012. Retrieved on 11 September 2012.
- 1 2 Martinez, Shandra." How a GVSU graduate made a killing with dinner theater business", MLive, Grand Rapids, 15 August 2012. Retrieved on 9 September 2012.
- ↑ Larsen, Audria. "Murder, They Improv", Rapid Growth Media, Grand Rapids, 28 October 2010. Retrieved on 11 September 2012.
- Bruttell, Nathan." Briarcliff PTA to Host Murder Mystery Night", Briarcliff Daily Voice, Briarcliff, 18 March 2012. Retrieved on 11 September 2012.