Murder mystery at the theatre

The Groundlings Theatre in Portsea is organising its own Christmas Murder Mystery nights in December.

The two nights, on December 1 and 16, will bring to life characters from stories written by Charles Dickens.

Visitors are encouraged to dust off their magnifying glasses and brush up on their carols as they attempt to solve a murder committed at the most festive time of year.

But people will not be expected to do their best detetcive work on an empty stomach.

The theatre will putting on its own three-course dinner, giving amateur sleuths the chance to get close to their fellow suspects and detectives.

A theatre spokesperson said: ‘It’s Christmas, and all your favourite Dickens characters have come out to join us for a night of festive murder and mayhem at the beautiful, historic Groundlings Theatre.’

Unfortunately the first date on December 1 is sold out online, but there are still tickets available for the December 16 event.

To take part in the murder mysteries, contact the Groundlings Theatre by calling them on (023) 9227 3370, or find them online at groundlings.co.uk.

Alternatively you can pop into the theatre at 42 Kent Street to book your place in person.

Tickets cost £35 each including a three-course meal, and each event will begin at 8pm.

In the run-up to Christmas the theatre will also be holding their annual pantomime, which this year is the traditional tale of Aladdin.

Shows start on Saturday, December 9 and will carry on until Sunday, January 7.

Tickets cost £16 for adults, £14 for concessions and £12 for children.

There are also discounts available for families, schools and societies.

Shows coming up in the new year include Little Red Riding Hood, on February 9, and Olaf the Horrible, Viking Tale on February 22.