The stage is being set, the actors are rehearsing, and ticket sales have been brisk for the sequel to the Vernon Lions Club’s successful fundraiser, Death on the SS Aberdeen, held last spring.
This year, the murder mystery takes place in 1908, on land, at the historical Kalamalka Hotel.
Steve Pauls, owner of the present day hotel, is enthusiastic about the play and has made available several period photographs which will be used in the decoration of the Schubert Centre where the fundraiser will be held.
“Coming in the door will feel like you’ve stepped into the Victorian Kal Hotel lobby,” said Mike Smith, event chairman. “Everyone will have a ‘reservation’ at the hotel, including the guests.”
Once again, local playwright Barbara Keith will engage and entertain the audience while dropping subtle clues to the solution of the mystery Murder at the Kalamalka Hotel.
Keith, who also wrote last year’s mystery, has made every effort to reflect the local area and time period, while creating a fictional murder.
“Actors will circulate among the guests during dinner and will answer questions aimed at guessing the identity of the culprit,” said producer Val Heuman, who is tirelessly working to make the play come alive.
“We’re excited to be able to present this event and grateful for the keen interest shown in it,” said Lion Mike Smith.
This annual major fundraising event enables the Vernon Lions Club to provide much needed support to worthy community causes.
The proceeds from the event will go towards the North Okanagan Hospice Society, which provides palliative care in a caring and dignified environment, and the Family Resource Centre Society, which offers a wide variety of counselling and programs for children, parents and seniors within the community.
The Murder at the Kalamalka Hotel event takes place April 6 at the Schubert Centre, with cocktails at 5:30 p.m. and the play starting at 6 p.m.
Last year’s dinner and silent auction was completely sold out and this sequel promises to be just as popular.
Items for the silent auction are still being sought from within the community.
Businesses or individuals wishing to donate an item are encouraged to call 250-503-1907.
