You've just started a delicious meal. Then a nearby table erupts.

Some men argue. The argument turns to shoving. One man falls to the floor. He jumps up with a knife that he thrusts into the other's chest. But wait, things may not be what they seem, at least not according to the police detective who rushes onto the scene. The dead man also has a gun shot wound. Did you hear a gun shot?

The murder mystery dinner is now in full swing.

Murder mystery theatre has been in action for years. Combined with dinner theater, these shows are interactive and often held at smaller venues. People love to eat and to try to solve a mystery. The meal quickly becomes an intricate game. There are many styles of mysteries. One is a simple interactive play where the actors talk to the patrons but stick to a general story in which one of the actors' roles is to solve the mystery. Another is a game in which the diners have to discover clues to solve the murder. Sometimes a guest or two are even in on the secret, asked to join the cast for the performance.

These mysteries have become popular for parties, special occasions and even entire weekends and cruises. Pop culture covers them. Movies and television have explored the concept. People invited to a party die one by one. There's a comedy version titled Murder by Death. Sometimes a staged mystery becomes a real crime in these shows. The television show Monk explores it when the lead character, Adrian Monk, solves a mystery weekend in only 5 minutes and is then banned from future participation.

Sometimes these mysteries happen at spooky locations . Many mystery dinner theaters claim spooky happenings in their theater. It adds to the general fun even when not true. Patrons are willing to suspend disbelief enough to enjoy themselves, even if in the real world they wouldn't believe the tall tales.

A murder mystery dinner is enjoyable. They're not just for adults. Kids love a challenge and a show. Consider it for your next family outing.

Evan