TIPS

Setting the Atmosphere

Alcohol & Drinks

Photographs

Guests failing to show

Costumes:  There is no doubt that one of the main ways of making a murder mystery party go with a swing is for the guests to dress up appropriately.  Putting on a costume will mean they really get a feel for the part, and seeing other people dressed up will remove their own inhibitions.  If time or money prevents them from obtaining a good costume, then a token effort, such as an appropriate coat, jewellery or hat, can work wonders.  And, as host, you may like to have some appropriate props to help them out.  For instance a catapult or set of conkers for schoolboy Tom, Tom the Piper's Son in "The Wake for Humpty Dumpty".

Location:  As murder mystery games are often played at home, if the game is set in a specific time period, you may wish to remove any anachronistic items to the spare bedroom.  Alternatively items like the television can be covered with a cloth.

Music:  Period music can also be played to set the atmosphere.  This is particularly useful for the start of the party while waiting for all guests to arrive.  The opening bars of "Entrance of the Gladiators" will certainly get everyone in the mood for "Slaughter at the Circus"!

Food:  If you are preparing food for your guests then you might like to provide something appropriate to the game.  Or alternatively label the food to match the party.  For instance at a Halloween murder mystery you could serve up bats blood punch, eye of newt blancmange and tongue of dog sandwiches!

Props:  A few carefully selected props will enable your guests to really get into character.  Some ideas can be obtained from reading the character backgrounds on the invitations.  However one thing you should never do is use props for weapons!  Murder Mystery Parties usually involve alcohol, which can mean loss of judgement and coordination.  Combining this with a sharp carving knife is not a good idea.  If you insist on having a prop for your weapon, the best idea is to make your own out of cardboard.

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