Whodunit in Hemet? ‘Murder at the Mixer’ Invites Audience to Solve the Crime

Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber's one-night-only production blends comedy and a suspenseful finale where guests vote to unmask the culprit.

From left, Detective Goodriddance eyes the suspects Debradawn Shockey and Monica Reichl as Danica Wood reacts in shock during a scene from “Murder at the Mixer, ”a comedy presented by the Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce on May 9. (Stacey Bailey)

From Left, Lashman Koka and Linda Greilich and Valerie Vandever are up to mischief during a scene from “Murder at the Mixer.” (Stacey Bailey)

HEMET, Calif. — The Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to an evening of suspense, laughter and theatrical fun with its upcoming production of “Murder at the Mixer,” a comedic murder mystery written and directed by Stacey Bailey.
The one-night-only event will take place Friday, May 9, at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) at the Hemet Public Library, where the stage will be set for an entertaining whodunit filled with twists, turns and colorful characters.

Unlike traditional interactive productions, “Murder at the Mixer” unfolds as a fully staged performance, allowing audiences to sit back and enjoy the show — while still keeping their detective instincts sharp. At the conclusion of the play, guests will have the opportunity to cast their vote for who they believe committed the crime. Audience members can purchase chances to submit their guess ($2 for one entry or six for $10). Those who correctly identify the culprit will be entered into a drawing for a gift basket valued at more than $100.

The production features a cast of recognizable local personalities portraying humorous, larger-than-life characters. Among them are Linda Greilich of Golden Era Productions as Clarissa, San Jacinto’s mayor pro tem; Valerie Vandever, San Jacinto Councilwoman as the ditzy Valerie VanderBEE; Linda Krupa as Hemet Mayor Linda Coupon; Christy Barrett as Hemet Superintendent Christy Barista; Derk Rodgers as Dr. Pleasant; and Dan Goodrich as Detective Goodriddance. Chamber members Danica Wood, Debradawn Shockey, Monica Reichl and Drake Rodgers also appear, along with a special appearance by Koka.
Refreshments, including both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, will be available for purchase.

Bailey, who wrote and directed the play, is a longtime educator and former theater teacher at West Valley High School, where she taught for 35 years. In recognition of her impact, the school’s theater was named in her honor upon her retirement. Bailey is also a Hemet Unified School District Board member.

Tickets are $20 and may be purchased from cast members, at the Chamber office, at the door or online through Eventbrite (additional fees may apply).
For more information, contact the Hemet-San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce at 951-658-3211 or email: info@hsjchamber.com.