By Mary Ellen Psaltis
“Always a lot of drama in the theater,” remarks Anthony White who is playing Hamlet in the production of Murder Most Fowl but in real life is Rob Taylor. It’s a little complicated, but you’ll figure it out – eventually. Head over to Pellegrino’s Event Center in Tumwater for an evening of intimate theater, interrogation of suspicious characters, fine food and murderous cocktails. And, there are dead bodies and a large chicken.
Regular theatergoers will recognize Dennis Rolly and delight in his double roles. So will non-regular theatergoers. Andrew Gordon (Open Road Productions) has been busy as both writer and actor, also with multiple roles. You’ll get lyrics and music by Harlequin’s dynamic-duo brothers Scot and Bruce Whitney. Discover for yourself who is Brian Obscuro and Guy Incognito. Thurston County is blessed with talent.
Pellegrino’s and Open Road Productions have concocted an interactive murder mystery in four courses. You can eat, drink, witness, ask characters probing questions between courses and figure out – who dun it?
Director Jenny Greenlee, an Olympia native involved in theater for the past twenty years, says, it’s “a great evening of entertainment and opportunity to put on your sleuthing hat.” There’s melodrama, a smart guessing game and great food. “What more can you ask for!?”
Be sure to fill out the Sleuthing Sheet, as there are prizes to be won!
Personally, I loved questioning the characters – thinking of the hardest questions I could muster. Here’s a tip: Ask them what secret they can reveal to you. I liked being close to the stage and sharing the energy of the actors and the audience. There’s even rapiers slashing through the crowd! Watch your ears and hold onto your hats.
I agree with Pam Pellegrino, owner along with her husband Sam Pellegrino of the Event Center and Pellegrino’s Italian Kitchen, the show was “so much fun.” Do yourself a favor – support the local arts and food.
Shows are June 13, 14, 20, and 21 beginning at 7:00 p.m. Purchase tickets by calling Pellegrino’s Event Center at 360-515-0449 or 360-709-9055. For special deal tickets click here.
If you have never been to Pellegrino’s Event Center, you might like to know that spaces are available to rent for your wedding, party or other special event. There is a large ballroom that can be divided into thirds – the Palermo, Venice or Naples rooms. Across the hall is the Tuscan Terrace. It’s a more atmospheric party space with access to an outside seating area. There’s even a bar.
Pellegrino’s is proud of their personalized service. “We’re not a cookie cutter,” says Pam Pellegrino. “We are with you from the beginning to the end.” Maybe you want a fully catered meal or maybe you want it mostly catered. They will work it out. There are menus online – which you can pick from or use them as a starting place.
Sam and Pam Pellegrino have been serving food in Olympia for thirty-eight years; they know their business. Their restaurant, Pellegrino’s Italian Kitchen, is at a separate location in Tumwater. The Event Center has ample parking, and will save you the time and energy it takes to make your own house ready. Now that’s a party.
Eat Well – Be Well
