Murder Mystery Theatre opens tonight

COEUR d'ALENE - Murder, mystery and dinner will be served this evening on the patio of Coeur d'Alene Cellars during the opening performance of "The Mafia Murders," the first show of the season for CDA Murder Mystery Theatre.

Characters will be introduced, a murder will be revealed, investigation will occur and audience members will have a chance to get in on the "whodunnit?" excitement.

CDA Murder Mystery Theatre is the creation of Tracey Vaughan and Brook Bassett, who are both active in the local theater scene. Vaughan said tonight's show is sold out, but people can still get tickets for the summer's three remaining shows.

"People are really excited to see a new kind of theatre in town," she said. "If demand is high enough, we may add a show."

"The Mafia Murders" takes place in 1930 and someone is out to murder the Godfather. Friends and family of Donato "Babyface" Brundazini, the Godfather, gather at the family speakeasy for a party that turns foul. Suspense ensues as everyone works to untangle the mystery behind the evening's events.

Vaughan, who holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in theater, is in her eighth year teaching drama at Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy. She was previously the artistic director at Lake City Playhouse, and she taught part-time at North Idaho College.

Bassett owns a dance studio, Verve Studio 8, and is a drama coach and teacher with Christian Youth Theater-North Idaho. She regularly choreographs productions at Lake City Playhouse.

Bassett said she and Vaughan are looking forward to offering audiences an interactive theater experience.

"Since it is improv-based, the experience will be different each time," Bassett said.

CDA Murder Mystery Theatre will perform "The Mafia Murders" from 6-9 tonight and Aug. 15. It will perform a second show, "A Taste for Wine and Murder," July 11 and Aug. 22.

To reserve a seat at Coeur d'Alene Cellars, call (208) 664-2336.