Having never attended a production by the October Ensemble before, I didn't know what to expect as I entered the Jersey Shore Arts Center in Ocean Grove, New Jersey, with my better half. All I knew was that it was the last weekend for this murder mystery, "Murder, Magic, & Mead." I have been to this venue before for other events and I was familiar with the fact that we were going up to the third floor which at one time was condemned back in the day when the building was a high school.
Upon entering the tavern, we were immediately greeted by Pan Flute (The Third) and Jinxica Broom, who ushered us to our private table up front. As with most murder mysteries, characters were mingling among the crowd as they filed in. All of the characters presented themselves in a very bizarre but interesting way especially for those that have visited Middle Earth before through movies, books or other forms of entertainment.
An original murder mystery written by Elle Michael River and Brandon Gulya, the show was very witty incorporating many elements of pop culture into the medieval world in which they exist. Scorchy McHavoc eventually came to our table before the actual performance began but it was hard not to be weary of her as her picture was posted around the room telling of her dastardly deeds. I almost lost it when Officer Sparklecake, a very "horny" unicorn, stopped by with his rookie partner, Officer Whisperbottom, who put together his uniform based on videos (use your imagination) and also possessed an introduction that required the technical director, Bliss Rubin, to be ready to que the music at each long-winded introduction. They had impeccable timing.
One of the best parts of the show was that every member of the cast had a moment to shine and they did! Having worked with Jade Green in Hitman Murder Mysteries, I understand the importance of being on top of the script as well as the improv opportunities and the entire cast was on top of their game. This even included Greg The Undeadinator, who creeped me out at the beginning and then showcased his comic timing and Gorbag Hellscream, whom you had to feel bad for in her quest to find love. This is even though the love potions being sold were probably illegal.
Kudos goes to Lex Goyden, Elle River, Jennifer Carlisle, Miranda Gale, Nick St. Onge, Brandon Gulya and Dakota Reider for bringing their characters to life in an extremely entertaining way. I also loved how they provided each table with an envelope to help us solve the murder, which I intentionally left out so as not to say who died (or did they?). I will definitely be looking for more productions from this talented and creative ensemble. You can check out their future productions by visiting www.octoberensemble.com .
