Straight up? Nah, We Like Our Murder on the Rocks
Prohibition-era murder mystery at speakeasy-themed bar = pretty neat
Beginning Wednesday, Aug. 20
Erie has a long history of serving up murder mystery dinners, from events at the Station Dinner Theatre to productions from In All Seriousness, but perhaps none have been so perfectly staged as Murder on the Rocks. And we feel confident saying so because none before have taken place in Downtown Erie's Room 33, where the main dining area resides behind a hidden door in a bookcase. If that doesn't scream "murder mystery material," we don't know what does.
"This story was 100 percent inspired by the location," said Adele Crotty, owner and creative director of Penny and Pearl Productions, as well as the show's writer, director, and producer.
"Room 33 Speakeasy is one of the most interesting, beautiful, and absolutely unique venues in Erie." The serving of food unfolds as the story does, with appetizers and a short intro; Act I, followed by dinner; and Act II, followed by dessert and audience guesses as to "whodunnit" (guess correctly and you could win a prize).
She went on to describe how the action takes place in the 1920s and is centered around a handful of fictional employees, played by Katie States, Chad Santos, Lisa Simonian, Tony Lewandowski, and Colleen Munn. "A mysterious crate, a surprise guest from the past, and numbers that just don't add up, are the main plot points," Crotty explained.
Ultimately, though, Room 33 is like a sixth character, and while it has no lines, it speaks volumes. According to Crotty, "It helps the audience connect with the characters and the language of the play when they are surrounded by authenticity and ambiance." The venue even inspired the event poster (designed by Katie Cecchetti). "Having to do zero work setting the ambiance and theme has been a Godsend, truly," Crotty said.
Aug. 20, 21, 27, and 28; 6:30 p.m. // Room 33, 1033 State St. // $65 (includes meal) // For info and tickets visit: tickets.eriereader.com
