EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, MO — The Excelsior Springs Area Cultural Guild’s murder mystery dinner theater, “Death by Chocolate,” successfully raised close to $7,600. The immersive event, which took place over two sold-out performances, will fund seven scholarships for local students pursuing degrees in the arts. The fundraiser introduced attendees to a compelling mystery set in the make-believe Fountain Chocolates Factory board room.
The play introduced attendees to a vibrant cast of characters entangled in corporate intrigue and personal drama. Robbie Farabee shone as the ambitious assistant Toby LeRone, while Shawn Roney captivated audiences as the meticulous Inspector Abbott. Sally Jones portrayed Parma Violet, the discerning head of tasting, and Bobby Besherse brought to life S. Herbert Fountain, the reluctant playboy at the helm of the chocolate empire. Roxane Harden’s Dolly Mixtures, Jolene Loftin’s Jelly Bean, Russell Wenz’s passionate and boisterous Swiss chocolatier Pierre Dropse, and Marla Neal’s pragmatic Cherry Pips rounded out the ensemble, each adding depth to the mystery that unraveled following a controversial company announcement.
The plot thickened with the discovery of a body, leading Inspector Abbott and the audience on a thrilling quest to unveil the culprit. The performance’s interactive nature engaged attendees, inviting them to piece together clues, solve the mystery alongside the inspector, and win prizes.
On behalf of the Cultural Guild, Denise Siegel praised the community’s support and the dedication of volunteers, including the actors, food and beverage servers, and the event & cast coordinator, Tisha Mason. Special thanks were also extended to The Montgomery Event Venue, sponsors Dr. Erin Schreier and Bross & Spidle, silent auction and bartender Susan Blaser, emcee Stacey Box, and the rehearsal spaces provided by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and Casa Di Vite.
“The success of this event shows the strength and creativity of our community,” Siegel remarked. “Not only have we raised an amazing amount of money for scholarships, but we’ve also come together to celebrate and support the arts in Excelsior Springs.”
The Excelsior Springs Area Cultural Guild invites anyone who would like more information about the scholarships or to learn about upcoming events to visit www.esculturalguild.com.
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