Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

The Gustke Shelter staff organized a fund raiser, using the students of Parkersburg South drama department, to have a murder mystery dinner theater. It was held this past Saturday night at the First Christian Church here in Parkersburg. There seemed to be about 120 people there, for the play, some great food, and good fellowship. A student from Parkersburg South wrote the play, and the drama teacher provided strong leadership to her students, to have a very strong performance for the evening's entertainment. She also played a part! She is the mother of Katie Whitlow, who works at the Shelter. Katie sang some 1930's vintage songs during the breaks in the acts. Audience members had to guess who committed a murder in the plot of the play. There were also silent auction items for the audience to bid on. Staff of the Shelter (and many of their family members!) as well as the students, set the room up all day Saturday; decorating and setting up the dinner settings. All the hard work paid off with a very enjoyable evening. The event raised over $2000 in cash, and a significant amount of in-kind donations. It was deemed a success by one and all, and already, plans are underway for another such event next year.