Interactive murder mystery hits Bay Village

Two of the actors from "A Dickens of a Christmas," BAYarts' murder mystery last year.

BAYarts is once again presenting an interactive murder mystery event after last year’s was so popular. The title is "A Winter’s Tale" and it is set in the 1930s.

Actress Kaylea Kudlaty has been organizing the local Cleveland acting talent from the TrueNorth Cultural Arts center. The cast list has 12 in the murder mystery, all functioning as possible suspects. Joining Kudlaty are Tim Hale, Alicia Spurlock, Bridget Messaros, Emmy Cohen, Lyda Santa, Martin Carlton, Matt Dodds, Nick Yuric, Rich Phillis, Sam Seawolf and Shea Hopkins. Actor Fred Munkachy will once again be emceeing the event.

“Last year's cast absolutely loved it!” said Kudlaty. “The storyline, environment and the food – everything was amazing and very well put together. This event has quickly become one of my holiday favorites. It is so unique and different and everyone from the audience to cast members thoroughly enjoy themselves. I have been involved with the arts for a very long time and I really look forward to this event!”

The cast will once again be creating their own costumes. Last year was a Victorian Steampunk theme, and this year is the 1930s. Trends during that age included sensible suits, oxford shoes, and creased and cuffed trousers for men. Women wore silky and belted dresses, large collars, puffed sleeves, and anything that was trim and tailored.

Stars of this era that may be looked upon for inspiration include Greta Garbo, Jean Harlow, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Errol Flynn and Katharine Hepburn. Partygoers are encouraged to dress up in any way they like, whether it be a small accessory or full outfit.

The plot of the story takes place at a Christmas party, featuring characters like tenacious go-getter Anita Rooney, vapid gossip Matilda Teasport, ambitious politician Evan Hoffman, and business tycoon Douglas Goodwin.

This year, BAYarts' event organizer Pam Mills has allowed it to grow even larger. Along with the murder mystery, there will be performances and a festive sing-a-long.

“They perform all over the Cleveland area spreading the Christmas cheer to everyone they can,” Kudlaty shared. "The team will be singing and dancing to some of your favorite holiday music including 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town.'"

On the subject of acting, BAYarts Executive Director Nancy Heaton has updates about the former Huntington Playhouse that BAYarts is in the process of taking over. “While we’re not going to be duplicating what the Playhouse did, we are developing a theater education program with actress Mary Ann Nagel. There will also be performances incorporated into our already extensive programming. Such as with our Murder Mystery events.”

"A Winter's Tale: Murder Mystery" takes place on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $45 and include dinner and dessert. Tickets must be purchased in advance at bayarts.net/events/upcoming or by calling 440-871-6543.