By Trish Svoboda/Image courtesy of the Geary County Historical Society
The Geary County Historical Society is taking guests back to the 1980s with its 4th annual Murder Mystery taking place February 27 and 28, and March 6 and 7 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. each night.
This year’s show features a retro setting inspired by a 1980s shopping mall, complete with costumed characters, themed photo opportunities, and audience participation. Executive Director Heather Hagedorn said after previously staging mysteries set in the 1860s, 1920s and 1950s, they decided to keep moving forward and hit the 80s. “We like to keep in mind the various decades that might inspire people to come in costume and have a good time with it,” said Hagedorn. “And who doesn’t love dressing up for the 80s?”
The event has expanded over the years, growing from a small, one-night volunteer production to a two-weekend run with four performances and a larger cast that includes experienced regional theater actors. Tickets have been selling out more quickly each year.
“I think this year it’s going to be a little bit of a wild ride. Our actors are ready to go. They have some very funny, zany characters that they’re playing. And it’s just going to be some fun nights.”
Scripts, characters and evidence are all created in-house by Hagedorn and educator Kim Neptune, with planning and writing taking nearly a full year. Hagedorn said they’re already brainstorming ideas for next year’s theme. “Right now, we’re already looking at what 2027 is going to look like, so it’s quite a long process, but we have so much fun doing it.”
Hagedorn said guests should be prepared for some level of interaction. “All of our suspects will come to each table, and the guests will have a chance to explore the evidence and then question our suspect.”
Each performance seats about 50 guests at tables of 6 or 7. Tickets can be purchased by the table, or individually. Dinner is included, and this year the meal will feature classic 1980s-style fare with pizza from sponsor Pizza Hut. Guests will also be served a salad bar and cookies for dessert. Mall-style popcorn and other snacks will be offered throughout the night to complete the food court experience. A beverage bar will be available for those age 21 and older to purchase drinks.
Hagedorn said this is one of her favorite things they do every year and is appreciative of the response. “We’re just so grateful that people have been receiving these murder mysteries so well over the last few years. We’re really excited that we get to keep doing them because despite how much work it is to put them on, it’s one of our favorite things that we do every year. I encourage people to grab those last couple of tickets that are available and help us make this another sold out show.”
Visit Geary County Historical Society’s website to purchase tickets while they’re still available.
