Murders over a meal

A series of gruesome murders are likely to take place in a Dubai restaurant on November 17, even as diners are being asked to stay alert — even play detective.

Infamous Don Brundizzi and his lackeys are slated to visit the Al Dente restaurant at Byblos Hotel in The Greens, sending a chill down the spine of fellow diners.

In what is being pegged as an unprecedented evening of murder and mystery over a meal, the Dubai Drama Group will stage the Mafia Murders, an interactive play, where brave-hearts among diners will be expected to rise to the occasion and help identify the killers.

Pick up the clues

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Play director Rodger Talty told XPRESS that the concept of solving murder mysteries over a dinner table is common in the West and was becoming popular here too. He said the cast of the play would walk around and interact with diners, staging performances in bits and parts, between a four-course Italian meal.

Although the Don believes he can trust everyone around him, each of the seven characters other than him has a motive to kill him.

They don't let it show, but by the end of the evening there is bad blood and more than one murder takes place. It's for the diners to pick up the clues, figure out who is killed and how. Those who get it right can walk away with prizes.

"It's a lot of fun and not a regular theatre night. The diners are even encouraged to come dressed around the Mafia theme," said Talty. Gordon Torbet, who is playing the part of the Don, said there is no set script. "But it will be very engaging as the evening unfolds."

He said the audience can expect an evening packed with intrigue, good food and a hearty laugh. Having done such shows in the UK, he said, "It is a very exciting experience." Sarah Murphy, who plays the flirtatious Rita, said, "In the play, my parents have been killed and I am determined to find out who is responsible for their deaths. I don't take things at face value."

The best part of the play is that it is interactive, she said, adding that the audience gets a rare chance to participate in a murder mystery even as they enjoy their meal.

Details

•WHAT: Mafia Murders
•WHERE: Al Dente Restaurant
•WHEN: 7.30pm, Thursday, November 17
•HOW: Buy Dh200 tickets at the restaurant, which includes a refreshment and a four-course Italian meal