How to Host a Murder Mystery Party

While their duties may be different depending on whether they are hosting the murder mystery party or simply the host for game play, the host is the most important character for a successful murder mystery party. The host is the only one with information about all the characters and plotlines to tie the story together. When characters have questions or need help, the host is the person they ask, and that person has the final say on any complications or problems that may arise.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Appropriate costume for era or location (if guests are dressing up)
• Notebook and pen or pencil
• Storyline and character sheets from the murder mystery game kit

Host a Murder Mystery

1. Read the information provided in the game kit, including character sheets, clues and storyline. Take down any notes you may need for easy reference during game play.

2. Dress in character according to the game's era and location.

3. Keep a copy of the game information nearby on game night.

4. Gather the guests together and read them the introduction to set the mood for game play. If players haven't received their character sheets, hand these out as well.

5. Keep track of guest involvement and enthusiasm. When conversation seems to be winding down, move quickly to the next phase of the game to keep interest levels high.

6. Reveal clues to guests as required by the game.

7. Offer any hints or solutions to complications that may arise.

8. Call guests together at the end of game play to hear theories, offer the solution and finish the game.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are hosting your own party, decide beforehand if you will also participate as a character or simply facilitate the game.
• Ask at local theater groups or in college drama departments for anyone interested in acting as host for your party.
• If you choose to hire a host or employ a friend, meet with him a few nights before your party to explain what you want and any duties the host will carry out.
• If you are hired or invited specifically as host, make sure you are familiar with the players and their characters.
• Hosting and participating in a murder mystery party demands that you be very careful when scanning the game kit, so that you don't accidentally discover any secret information.
• If you are invited to host a murder mystery party, remember that you are there to facilitate the game. Don't overindulge in alcohol, keep your secrets and be flexible when dealing with complications that may arise.

[adimmick]

on 10/26/2009 For my annual Halloween cocktail party I used a game from MyMysteryParty.com. While the game was well put together and easy to host, it was not simple to play out in a cocktail party setting. Everyone had fun despite the long winded complicated clues, and inconsistencies in directions and clues. I recommend their parties for a dinner party format.

[maxspahn]

on 3/31/2009 This article only refers to one of the three types of Murder Mystery parties available! Sure, box games can be bought for cheap, but they are very limited in terms of direction and ensuring a high quality result. Plus, they always result in amateur actors being the principle suspects, and there is a world of difference between amateur volunteer actors and professionals! The other two ways you can choose are 1) Hire a LIVE Murder Mystery company with professional actors that come to your location and perform well-rehearsed shows that involve audience members, OR 2) take your party to a restaurant or hotel murder mystery show.

[Vezo]

on 8/14/2008 If you enjoy hosting Murder mystery parties, you may be interested in my blog post about learning how to host a murder party for a living.