“What’s your code name?” That’s the first question you’re asked at the Dinner Detective event at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee. I landed on “Sherlock Gnome,” which was quickly outclassed by clever monikers like “Frida Brest” and “Justin Case.”
Once you have your nametag, it’s time to meet and mingle with the players. Most are guests like yourself looking to nosh on the four-course meal, grab drinks from the bar and solve crime. But a select few are actors, there to throw you off the scent.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Then suddenly, bam, a murder in the building. Everyone in the room witnesses it, but no one sees who did it. Now, the hosts for the evening arrive. In my case, it was charming and witty detective duo “Red Herring” and “Chunk Norris” played by longtime Dinner Detective actors Dale Jackson and Tom Martin. Together they interrogate members of the audience, stumble onto clues and make a whole bunch of jokes.
While I won’t give away spoilers – the show changes up every few months – I can say the mystery is incredibly intricate and requires a detail-oriented mind to solve it. As for the dinner portion of Dinner Detective, while not egregious, it’s certainly not the reason you’re there. It’s the thrill of the mystery, the entertaining cast and the need to win that makes this a night to remember.
This month’s Dinner Detective dates are Nov. 4, 11 and 18. Tickets start at $70, but add $20, and you get to be part of the show.
