Murdering for Fun on a Saturday Night

The Cast:(The Stevenson's, The Allen's, The Smith's, The Mitchells, The Fechters, The Calhoun's, The Barry's, The Tanner's, The Harris', The Pritchard's, The Jordan's, The Pribyl's, The Kellis')
In the past 9 years, this was by far the biggest murder mystery dinner party we've done.  There were things I loved about a big group and some I didn't.  I loved the ability to have so many involved and see the interaction between everyone.  I have realized, with bigger parties, our objectives don't allow the privilege of interacting with some of the other characters as often because there are so many story lines going on at once, some of which I didn't even know about until speaking with others AFTER the party.  I realized after the fact that it would've been better to interview or question everyone...not just the ones I was directly meant to for the game's sake.  Live and learn for next year.
Our theme was 'Cruising For Murder' set on the Mystery of the Seas cruise ship.  There were good characters, but it was more challenging for costumes this year not being set in a specific time period or huge diversity in the actual characters background's.  Our guests still managed to do a great job and I was blown away with how quickly they get into character...upon entering and throughout dinner.  I have to say that make believe is even more fun as an adult.

Having rained for a few days in the week, I was worried for how wet the ground would be or if we'd even be able to be outside, but it was perfect out for the evening.

I appreciate everyone who put time and effort into getting into their characters roles...it's only as fun as what people put into it....and it was so entertaining.  Many thanks!!

A.J. Service & Carrie StublingA.J. was a prescription drug ring lord ( obviously) and had me busting up anytime I even looked at him.  Carrie was a spoiled daughter of the Captain.  Anytime I saw her she was barking orders, giving someone the cold shoulder, or chomping her gum. 

The Barback and Margarita Rocks.  Margarita came away with Best Performer gift certificates to Ultrastar for her brilliant acting and singing skills.  She had several show tunes she performed occasionally through the night for money.  She left the crowd speechless.  The Barback couldn't take his eyes off Margarita and was  putting out fires...literally.

Buddy Call and Amanda Rebound.  Buddy could origami a towel into about anything.  My favorite was the bird of paradise.  As runner up to Best Performer I was disappointed that as the towel boy he didn't come in only a towel.  Amanda was on the prowl with her fantastic dress.  Whether setting romantic dinners or moving on to the next man...she carried herself in a way that let me know I never want to be on the rebound.  

Captain Stubling & Samantha Simpson.  The Captain led the evening and was an emotional wreck after the death of his love interest.  Samantha was an amazing ambassadress contestant.  So proper in every conversation and action...she walked with grace and told a handful of lies.

Charlie Charge and Dakota Wild.   Charlie never ceases to amaze me.  Last year, it was the silk white shirt...this year I was hypnotized with the fit of his white cotton pants. Dakota was everyone's favorite since she was the travel critic...especially since she acquired the most cash.  As the night's wealthiest player she went home with a half a million dollars (in shredded Federal Reserve currency).  Take note, she must be very skilled in blackmailing(?).  She obviously also got a bit of a sunburn on the cruise.

Dexter Handley and Liza James.   Dexter was Margarita's number one fan and had to be the winner of yelling out random things throughout the night.  Liza, having just graduated, was sailing with her father and fell in love with the towel boy.  Ok, who knew Candy Cann was her mother???  

Jeffery James and Kristy Marie.  Never had to interact with them.  Bummer.But, Melissa is always so innocent, right?  She was another ambassadress contestant. Poor Jeffery was widowed.  Again...Candy Cann's husband...who knew??!!

Officer Bullet and Passenger 'B' (from Corporate Office)The Officer had all guests under control with his cap gun while 'B' was so intense during the investigation, I thought for sure she would know who the murderer was.

Passengers Eddie and Danielle.  This was their first year and I think we confused them and they probably felt they were in a different dimension...nevertheless...they kept up and looked way too good for a costume party.

Penny Drop and Passenger 'C'.  Penny, another ambassadress contestant, somehow picked up a drinking problem.  I started to wonder if apple cider was the only thing going down the hatch.  Penny is hilarious in general, so this wasn't much of a stretch.  Again, Passenger 'C', no interaction...but anyone who has Penny on their arm HAS to have a sense of humor.

Tom Collins and Candy Cann.  While you may think Tom was the Chippendale dancer, he was actually the bartender and did a fabulous job serving the guests.  He won Best Dressed with a gift certificate to Babbo restaurant.  Was I the only one holding back from wanting to grab his chest??  Candy was on every woman's bad side for the night with the attention of every gentleman.  Candy didn't shy from performing on command.  

Wilbur and Wanda Wed.  Celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary on the Mystery of the Seas.  Wilbur spent much of his time with Candy and tried to profess his love to me through song and dance.  He was paid to stop and never do it again.

Gold digger.

The Victim...Candy Cann.  She was more upset that all her money was stolen at death rather than being killed.

The devil herself....the murderer.  Out of 26 people...only 2 suspected correctly.  Good job Jason Jordan and Lindsey!!
Until next year...