About Us

Retro 1940s film noir gangster with gun smoking cigarette.

We have over 10 years’ worth of  experience in running and performing murder mysteries, and are committed to providing quality events for our guests. We have around 30 original scripts that are complex enough for detective buffs to find challenging, but wrapped up in a comedic style that allows everyone to be thoroughly entertained.

 Several of our scripts lend themselves to guests coming in fancy dress, which gives the evening a real party feel.

 We can cater for groups of all sizes, whether they be at a public event, a private party or a charity fundraiser, all at competitive prices.

 We have our own PA system with wireless microphones, to make sure that even for large numbers of guests everyone’s experience is a great one.

 Each event has at least five actors, skilled in improvisation and personally chosen to  be on our team.

 Whether you are a private organiser or an events manager for a public event, we will provide everything needed for a successful evening. All you need to provide is the  venue and the catering.

We have recently branched out to offer our murder mysteries in New Zealand, based in Whanganui.

 To discuss your next event, in the UK email info@astabinthedark-events.co.uk or phone 07805672007,  and in New Zealand email astabinthedark.nz@gmail.com or phone 022 5113286.

 We can be flexible to fit with your needs, but typically a murder mystery dinner follows  the format  below. The majority of the action and questioning  takes place between  courses, with certain  evidence and some scenarios taking place during the courses.

• Suspects arrive and meet the guests in the bar/meeting point prior to dinner.
• Arrival of the Inspector, announcement of the murder, first clues and the interrogation begins.
• Starter
• Suspects are questioned further as more evidence becomes known.
• Main Course
• The plot thickens and red herrings abound as twists are revealed and the suspects are further questioned.
• Dessert
• A final chance to use your little grey cells to sift the guilty from the innocent.
• Coffee, and the opportunity to put your deductions to paper.
• The murderer – or murderers – are revealed, prizes are awarded, and justice is served!

 Weekends begin with the format above on the Friday night, continue on Saturday  morning, and conclude with the format above on Saturday night, and includes dinner,  bed and breakfast for 2 nights.