If you've ever wanted to test out your sleuthing skills, there's an event here in Cedar Rapids that gives you a chance! The Dinner Detective, "America’s LARGEST interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show" takes place monthly at the DoubleTree by Hilton at 350 First Ave NE in Cedar Rapids.

 

The Dinner Detective describes itself as "very uniquely different from traditional murder mystery dinner theater." There is no theme or elaborate costumes, so actors are hidden throughout the audience and blend right in with everybody else! The official website reads:

"Anyone in the room can end up being a part of the show, and the action happens throughout the entire room. Throughout the night, a crime will occur, hidden clues will be revealed, and our Detectives will help everyone try to crack the case. In the end, we have a Prize Package awaiting the Top Sleuth who provides the best answer before the killer is unmasked!"

They also offer something called "The Suspect Package," where guests can frame a member of their party without their knowledge. That will get your group directly involved in all the action! The Dinner Detective Cedar Rapids has rave reviews, with 4.9 out of 5 stars on Facebook.

The Dinner Detective wouldn't be complete with out the dinner. Guests' meals include a Caesar Salad and Chocolate Lava Cake, plus a choice of entree:

  • Seared Chicken Marsala with Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Vegetable Blend
  • Roasted Pork Loin with Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Vegetable Blend
  • Baked Mushroom Strudel with Quinoa And Tomato Basil Sauce

In addition to the meal, there's also a fully-stocked cash bar available throughout the performance.

The FAQ section of The Dinner Detective's website offers some useful information for first timers, including a dress code. People attending the event should dress "business casual/dressy casual." That means no shorts, t-shirts, or hats. If you're not dressed appropriately, you will be turned away at the door. And speaking of the door, it's recommended that guests arrive 10 to 15 minutes earlier than the check-in start time. Everyone will be assigned seating at 10-person round banquet tables. It's also important to note that there is a strict age limit of 15-years-old, so anyone younger won't be able to attend the event.

General admission tickets for The Dinner Detective start at $59.95 per person. Each ticket includes "an interrogation reception, fantastic satisfying multi-course dinner, wait staff gratuity (beverage service and performer gratuity not included), and a tantalizing Prize Package for the Top Sleuth who comes closest to solving the crime." There are currently three upcoming shows listed on the Cedar Rapids schedule, including one this weekend that is already sold out. The next two will take place Saturday, May 13th and Saturday, June 13th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. You can reserve your spot online HERE.

 

 

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