Murder At Gatsby's Gala
Facts of the case
A murder in an era of decadence and delight!
Guest Info
Everything you need to know about Gatsby’s Gala, its patrons, the latest dance craze and how to best talk with your fellow party-goers at this 1920s murder mystery game!
Who’s Who at Gatsby’s Gala!!!
Jay Gatsby – Millionaire. A war hero turned businessman, Jay is looking to pass the reins of his business on. Is it the demand of his work or the demands of his dame that have become too much?
Daisy Gatsby – Socialite. This dainty doll has won the man of her dreams and a lifestyle to match. It is rumored she won’t settle for less than perfect, but how far will she go to get it?
Mayor Gibson – Mayor. With the right people in place, Mayor Gibson has managed to run a town untouched by crime—and will do everything to keep it that way.
Gertie Gibson – Mayor’s wife. A woman of power and prestige, you can’t tell if she is more proud of her son’s success as a boxer or her continued title as Mayoress. There is little Gertie won’t (or hasn’t) done to get or stay in power.
Chief Curtis – Police chief. As the mayor’s right hand, Chief Curtis has been the brute behind the brains. But how long is the chief willing to continue being overlooked and keep it that way?
Sid Foreman – Boxer. As the heavyweight boxing champion, Sid’s recent losing streak indicates he might be preoccupied with something, or someone, else. Sid may need to change his ways to get what he wants.
Billie Love – Hollywood star. This glorious Hollywood star is out for a visit, and it is hard to say if the holiday is meant to improve her relationship, popularity, career, or all of the above.
Freddie Franklin – Hollywood producer. It is no secret Hollywood is all about the money. But nobody is quite sure if they sent Freddie along to protect their investment or gain a new one.
Jazzy Jordan – Singer. A salacious songbird at The Cat’s Meow, Jazzy has her sights set on singing on the silver screen … and won’t let anyone get in her way.
High Note – Musician. This traveling musical cat has been around the globe. While they have crossed their share of bridges, they may have burned some, too.
Gillie Griffith – Speakeasy owner. A businessperson with profit in mind, Gillie will compromise nothing to get what they want. It is hard to say if Gillie’s ties to the underworld help them sink or swim.
Gerry Jenkins – Tabloid reporter. With their nose in everybody’s business, it is hard to say if Gerry is searching out the next scandal or already at the heart of it?
Tom Buchanan – Polo player. As Daisy’s jilted ex, many wonder if he is desperate to win her back or simply trying to take advantage of her connections.
Dazzy Vance – Baseball player. Fans can’t get enough of the cunning competitor, but whispers in the dugout suggest his success may be due to something more sinister than natural talent.
Charlie Charge – Lawyer. A higher-up in the Gatsby organization, Charlie has been craving a larger slice of the pie and will have a hard time settling for leftovers.
Eddie Brewer – Bootlegger. Known for their high-quality hooch and fast moves, Eddie has proven they will stop at nothing to keep the spirits flowing. But will Eddie’s need for advancement put them behind?
Greta Gatsby – Accountant. As Jay’s little sis, Greta is out to prove that her nimbleness, and not nepotism, got her where she is today.
Arnie Rothgreen – Bookie. A swindler at heart, there is not a situation Arnie can’t twist to their advantage. Something that often gets Arnie out of trouble … and into it.
Chappy – British aristocrat. A British toff that landed overseas, many have wondered what Chappy has invested in to keep their wealth flowing. And whether that investment could be deadly.
Nicky Money – Stockbroker. Always one step ahead of the market and the law. Some say Nicky’s methods are unconventional, but their clients keep coming back for more.
** Some names and characters may or may not be included in your version.
Talk the Talk: Gatsby Glossary
Download this dictionary to brush up on your lingo so you can be the Real McCoy at the elaborate affair!
People at 1920s Gatsby parties often used a unique style of speech influenced by the Jazz Age and the Prohibition era. Here are some characteristics and phrases commonly associated with the language and slang used during that time:
Some popular phrases include:
- “Bee’s knees”: An expression to describe something excellent or outstanding.
- “Cat’s meow”: Similar to “bee’s knees,” it refers to something highly impressive or fashionable.
- “Giggle water”: A term for alcoholic beverages, particularly cocktails.
- “Darb”: Used to describe something or someone extraordinary or cool.
- “Hotsy-totsy”: A phrase to describe something or someone attractive or desirable.
- “Flapper”: A fashionable young woman who defied traditional norms by wearing short skirts, bobbing their hair, and embracing a more liberated lifestyle.
- Zozzled: Slang term for being intoxicated or drunk.
- Sheik: A term used to describe a fashionable and attractive man.
- Speakeasy slang: Terms used to disguise the sale of alcoholic beverages during Prohibition, such as “hooch” (alcohol), “giggle water” (liquor), and “juice joint” (speakeasy).
Other tips and tricks!
- Use Quick and Snappy Dialogue: Conversations in the 1920s were often fast-paced and full of energy. People aimed to be witty, charming, and lively. They used clever wordplay and humor to engage in conversations and entertain each other.
- Incorporate Exaggeration and Hyperbole: People in the 1920s often used exaggeration and hyperbole to make their speech more dramatic and entertaining. They would embellish stories and descriptions to create a more colorful narrative.
- Gatsby-esque Formality: The characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby” portrayed a particular formality in their speech. They used eloquent language and spoke with a polished demeanor, often exhibiting charm and sophistication.
For a plethora of words and phrases for the party, download the Gatsby Glossary and study up to have a great time!
Won’t you Charleston with me ?
The Charleston originated in the early 20’s in illegal drinking places during the time of prohibition. The combination of a particular type of jazz music and the highly polished, slippery floors of the Speakeasies gave rise to an in and out flicking of the feet which essentially characterized the dance.
If you don’t see the video below, refresh your browser!
If you don’t see the video below, refresh your browser!
Follow this link to learn how to Dance the Charleston.
One of our hosts chose to teach her crew the Charleston
And even had a Cat’s Meow Singer!!!
Costumes
Costume Gallery
Glamorous, elegant, and sophisticated, conveying the sense of freedom and creativity that defined the fashion of the 1920s.
Men; aim for sleek and tailored suits with sharp lines, accessorized with fedoras, bowties, and cufflinks.
Women; can opt for short, flapper-style dresses with sequins, beads, or fringe, complete with long necklaces, feather boas, and elegant headpieces. The message of your outfit should celebrate the indulgence and glamor of the era, reflecting the excitement and extravagance of a 1920s Gatsby-inspired party.
For the Ladies!
- Long Beads
- Feather Boas
- Sequined Headbands
- Feather Headbands
- Cigarette Holders
- Bobbed Wigs (see below)
- Garter (gun optional)
- Fishnet Leggings
- Fringe on your dress
- Fake Eyelashes
- Headbands
- Tiaras and hair combs
- Long necklaces
- Earrings
- Gloves
- Handbags
- T-strap shoes
- Cloche hats
- Furs, such as stoles or coats
- Art Deco brooches and pins
- Bracelets, including bangles and cuffs
- Sunglasses, particularly round or cat-eye styles
- Parasols or umbrellas
- Silk scarves
- Vintage style stockings with seams
- Costume jewelry, such as fake pearl necklaces and crystal earrings.
For the MEN!
- Mustache
- Suit Vest
- Suspenders
- Tie
- Cigar
- Fedora
- Holster with Gun
- Fedoras
- Newsboy caps
- Boater hats
- Neckties
- Bowties
- Cufflinks
- Pocket watches
- Oxford shoes
- Wingtips
- Saddle shoes
- Tie pins or bars
- Cravats
- Monocles or spectacles
- Trench coats or overcoats
- Dress vests or waistcoats
- Vintage style belts
- Vintage style socks
- Smoking jackets
Complete the Costume!
Your outfit for the party should be glamorous, elegant, and sophisticated, conveying the sense of freedom and creativity that defined the fashion of the 1920s. For men, aim for sleek and tailored suits with sharp lines, accessorized with fedoras, bowties, and cufflinks. Women can opt for short, flapper-style dresses with sequins, beads, or fringe, completed with long necklaces, feather boas, and elegant headpieces. The message of your outfit should celebrate the indulgence and glamor of the era, reflecting the excitement and extravagance of a 1920s Gatsby inspired party.
Accessories for the Ladies:
- Long Beads
- Feather Boas
- Sequined Headbands
- Feather Headbands
- Cigarette Holders
- Bobbed Wigs (see below)
- Garter (gun optional)
- Fishnet Leggings
- Fringe on your dress
- Fake Eyelashes
- Headbands
- Tiaras and hair combs
- Long necklaces
- Earrings
- Gloves
- Handbags
- T-strap shoes
- Cloche hats
- Furs, such as stoles or coats
- Art Deco brooches and pins
- Bracelets, including bangles and cuffs
- Sunglasses, particularly round or cat-eye styles
- Parasols or umbrellas
- Silk scarves
- Vintage style stockings with seams
- Costume jewelry, such as fake pearl necklaces and crystal earrings.
SHOP ACCESSORIES HERE!
For the MEN!
- Mustache
- Suit Vest
- Suspenders
- Tie
- Cigar
- Fedora
- Holster with Gun
- Fedoras
- Newsboy caps
- Boater hats
- Neckties
- Bowties
- Cufflinks
- Pocket watches
- Oxford shoes
- Wingtips
- Saddle shoes
- Tie pins or bars
- Cravats
- Monocles or spectacles
- Trench coats or overcoats
- Dress vests or waistcoats
- Vintage style belts
- Vintage style socks
- Smoking jackets
SHOP ACCESSORIES HERE!
Women’s Hairstyles:
Bob Cut: The most iconic hairstyle of the 1920s was the bob cut. It was a short, blunt cut that was often worn straight and flat against the head. Women would also sometimes add curls or waves to the ends of their hair for a softer look.
Finger Waves: Finger waves were a popular style in the 1920s. This involved using a comb and your fingers to create S-shaped waves in the hair, which were often worn close to the head.
Marcel Waves: Similar to finger waves, Marcel waves were created using a hot iron and comb to create deep waves in the hair.
Shingle Cut: The shingle cut was a variation of the bob cut that was tapered in the back, giving the hair a layered look. This was a popular style for women with shorter hair.
Check out these tutorials on how to create these 1920s hairstyles:
How to do Fingerwaves for Beginners
Flat Iron | Marcel Wave | How to
Men’s Hairstyles:
Short and neat: In the 1920s, men’s hairstyles were typically short and neat. This was a departure from the longer, more voluminous styles of the previous decade. Men would often have a side part and slick their hair back with pomade or hair tonic.
Slicked-back hair: Slicked-back hair was a popular style for men in the 1920s. This involved using a comb and hair product to push the hair back from the forehead and create a sleek, polished look.
Short, curly hair: Some men would opt for short, curly hairstyles in the 1920s. This involved having a close-cropped cut and using a curling iron or perm solution to create tight, defined curls.
Overall, the 1920s was a decade of bold experimentation in fashion and beauty, and the hairstyles of the time were no exception.
1920s HAIRSTYLES
Here are some makeup 1920s inspired make up Tutorials!
1920’s Flapper Makeup
Authentic 1920s Classic Look
Historically Accurate: 1920s Makeup Tutorial
The Great Gatsby Inspired Makeup
How to Apply 1920s Makeup
AN AUTHENTIC 1920S MAKEUP TUTORIAL
Decoration Ideas
Setting the Scene
Creating Your Entrance
Creating an Entrance
- Set up a vintage car prop at the entrance of the party, such as a Rolls Royce or a Cadillac, to create a grand arrival for guests.
- Have a red carpet entrance to make guests feel like they’re walking into a luxurious party.
– Complete the look with stanchions to guide the guests into the party.
- Create a VIP Entrance (sign included). Use the VIP Entrance sign or print out the Welcome toCreate a “Gatsby’s Mansion” sign to hang above the entrance.
- Welcome to Gatsby’s Gala! Create a sign or banner for your guests to welcome them in. Design included with mystery.
- Have balloons floating about! As your guests enter, they can mix and mingle with balloons floating above, to add to an air of excitement and elegance! You can have them dangling above with ribbons floating down, or adhere pictures and 1920s quotes to the balloons to help the float about.
Inside Your Party Space
Inside Your Party Space
Welcome To Gatsby’s Gala! Sign included with mystery. Have it printed big or small!
Hang black and white photos of 1920s celebrities and icons around the party area. included with mystery
– Spray paint frames Gold and hang them!
Room signs
- Flapper Lounge
- Cigar Bar
- Cocktail Lounge
- Make your own – to compliment the 1920s theme
- Add some mystery with a “Detective’s Office” area where guests can examine clues and evidence related to the murder mystery game. Decorate the area with vintage magnifying glasses, notepads, and other detective props.
- Party Signs of the Times:
- Signs included in mystery.
- Spray paint frames gold to hang them!
Highlight the Golden Age of Hollywood
- Play a black and white silent movie on one of the walls.
- Turn your TV into a cinema with red fabric curtains hanging alongside.
Use Scene setters to set the mood. Don’t live in a glittery mansion? No problem.
Table centerpieces
Wine bottles go a long way. Save empty bottles and spray paint them gold, silver, and/or black. Decorate with beads, feathers, art deco patterned scrap paper, and more! See examples here:
Touch of GLAM! With GOLD!
This era is all about the glitz and glamor – and that look can be replicated pretty inexpensively with gold – think of a gold and black theme to pull everything through.
- Metallic Fringe is a quick and inexpensive buy that will help deck things out in gold – doorways, backdrops, entrances – you name it!
- Balloons add a lot of flare, color, and to the party mood.
- You can use them for many different purposes!
- Backdrops, entrances, floating about.
- They are a great way to fill up space and at the same time give a sense of extravagant party feel!
- Spray paint everything gold – vases, picture frames, candlesticks, you name it!
- Use black and gold balloons to create balloon arches or garlands, and add tassels or streamers in coordinating colors for an extra touch of glam.
Setting the Table
Setting Your Table
Setting a table for a Gatsby-themed party requires attention to detail and a touch of glamor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create an elegant Gatsby-inspired table setting:
- Tablecloth: Start by covering the table with a luxurious tablecloth in a rich color like gold, black, or silver. Look for fabrics like silk, sequins, or lace to add a touch of opulence.
- Table Runner: Add a table runner down the center of the table for an extra layer of decoration. Consider using a sequined or beaded runner to enhance the Gatsby theme.
- Charger Plates: Place charger plates at each setting. These make everything look way more fancy, and can be found rather inexpensively at your local craft store. Opt for metallic or mirrored plates to add shine and sophistication to the table.
- Dinner Plates and Salad Plates: Layer the dinner plates on top of the charger plates. Use elegant white or cream-colored plates for a classic look. lace a smaller salad plate on top of the dinner plate.
- Don’t own multiple place settings – NO PROBLEM! Experiment with plasticware for the perfect look and the bonus is cleanup is then easy peasy!
- Napkins: Fold the napkins in a decorative manner and place them on top of the salad plates. You can choose napkins in colors that match the theme or use white or gold for a more traditional Gatsby style. Consider adding napkin rings adorned with pearls or rhinestones for a touch of glamor.
- Name Cards: If you have assigned seating, consider using stylish name cards in art deco-inspired designs. Place them on or next to the napkins.
- Centerpieces: Create eye-catching centerpieces that evoke the Gatsby era. Consider tall, elegant vases filled with white feathers, ostrich plumes, or cascading flowers like orchids or calla lilies. Incorporate gold or silver candle holders with tapered candles for an intimate and romantic ambiance.
- Table Decorations: Scatter sequins, pearl strands, or confetti on the table to add a touch of sparkle. Place small vases or candle holders with tea lights in between the place settings for additional illumination.
- Additional Decor: Don’t forget to decorate the surrounding area with Gatsby-themed elements like feathers, vintage photo frames, art deco mirrors, and strings of pearls. This will enhance the overall atmosphere of the party.
Remember, the Gatsby theme is all about elegance, glamour, and luxury. By incorporating these elements into your table setting, you’ll create a visually stunning and memorable experience for your guests. Enjoy your Gatsby party!
Lighting
Lighting
For a Gatsby-themed party, you’ll want to create a glamorous and elegant atmosphere with the lighting. Here are some ideas for Gatsby-themed party lighting:
Chandeliers: Hang ornate chandeliers or crystal pendant lights to add a touch of luxury to your space. They can be the focal point of the room and create a dazzling effect.
String Lights: Use strings of small, twinkling lights to create a magical ambiance. Hang them across the ceiling, along walls, or wrap them around pillars or columns.
Art Deco-inspired lamps: Look for art deco-inspired table lamps with geometric patterns, frosted glass shades, or gold accents. Place them on side tables or the bar area to add a vintage touch.
Candlelight: Candles are an essential part of Gatsby-inspired decor. Place candles in decorative candle holders or candelabras on tables, mantels, and other surfaces. Opt for unscented candles to avoid overpowering other scents in the room.
Colored Uplighting: Use colored uplighting to enhance the mood. Choose warm, soft hues like gold, amber, or deep red to create an intimate and glamorous atmosphere. Place uplights strategically around the room to highlight architectural details or specific areas.
Projected Patterns: Consider using a gobo projector to display art deco-inspired patterns or motifs on the walls or dance floor. This can add a unique visual element to your party and tie in with the Gatsby theme.
Mirror Balls: Install a large mirror ball or several smaller ones to create a dazzling effect with light reflections. The sparkling lights bouncing off the mirrors will add to the party’s glitz and glamour.
Remember to dim the overall lighting to create a more intimate and moody atmosphere. Combine these lighting ideas with appropriate decor, such as feathers, sequins, and vintage furniture, to complete the Gatsby-themed party experience.
Color Scheme
Color Scheme
Absolutely, a Gatsby-themed party is all about opulence, glamour, and vibrancy! Here are some color scheme ideas to capture that lavish 1920s style:
Black, Gold, and White: The quintessential Gatsby colors. Black for sophistication, gold for luxury, and white for a touch of elegance.
Deep Red, Gold, and Black: Rich red hues combined with gold accents and black for a classic, dramatic look reminiscent of the era.
Navy Blue and Silver: A sophisticated and slightly understated color combination that exudes classiness and elegance.
Emerald Green, Gold, and Cream: 4. **Emerald green signifies wealth and prosperity, paired with gold and cream for a lush and extravagant feel.
Royal Purple and Gold: A regal combination that screams luxury and extravagance, capturing the essence of Gatsby’s lavish parties.
Rose Gold, Blush, and Ivory: A softer take on the Gatsby theme, incorporating rose gold and blush tones with ivory for a more subtle yet still glamorous palette.
Art Deco Palette (Black, White, and Geometric Metallics): Focus on geometric patterns in black and white with metallic touches like silver, gold, or bronze for an authentic Art Deco vibe.
Consider using these colors for decorations, table settings, costumes, and invitations to create a cohesive and visually stunning Gatsby-themed party!
Creating Your Photo Spot
Creating Your Photo Spot
Give your guests an unforgettable souvenir by setting up a photo area where they can capture a picture of themselves in character.
A few suggestions:
- Pick a place where there will be good lighting.
- Accessories and decorations can make a difference. Have some extra props on hand that your guests can pose with.
- An easy way to create a background is to use a “scene setter.” These affordable rolls of images transform your room instantly and make for a good backdrop to your picture.
- Make sure there is enough room to fit everyone into the frame.
- For individual shots of guests, designate someone to be in charge of pictures as your guests arrive.
- Consider your character list and which character would fit the role of taking the picture. I.e., if you want mug shots, perhaps ask the investigator to be in charge of taking the pictures.
- For a group picture, take one just before the introduction is read or right after the solution is read (before people may start heading out).
- These are two times when you can count on everyone being around and attentive.
Utilize the Extras
Utilize the Extras
Once you order, in your mystery packet you will receive directions and/or printables to make unique and original decorations specific to your party!
Included will be:
- Liquor Crate Labels
- Liquor Labels
- Autographed Pictures of Stars
- Welcome, V.I.P. Entrance, and Party Posters:
- Room Signs: • Seven designs (4 pages)
- Police Line-up Board
- Photo-props
- Menu and Cocktail Menu:
- Champagne Glasses – Killer Chillers
- Champagne bottle party favors!
And More…
Setting the Scene
Menu Ideas
Food
Menu ideas – big and small
Hor d’oeuvres are where it is at!
1920s Affair!
What did average Americans eat in the 1920s?
Food historians tell us we had a sweet tooth, a taste for the exotic, and a well-developed sense of ordered creativity.
Translation: Fruit cocktails, Pineapple upside-down cake, and Jell-O molds. Tea sandwiches, fancy salads, and chafing-dish recipes were also “in.”
Feeding a large crowd?
Here are some affordable choices that were popular in that decade:
- Molded/fruited Jello salads, fruit cocktail, sliced pineapples & bananas (maraschino cherry ok).
- Deviled eggs, celery, olives, pickles, salted nuts (almonds, pecans, peanuts, filberts)
- Breadsticks, Parker House rolls, saltine-type crackers, potato chips
- Caesar salad, Waldorf salad
- Finger sandwiches…peanut butter & jelly, ham, turkey, chicken salad, tomato, egg salad, cream cheese
- Fried chicken, baked ham Pineapple Upside-down cake, angel or devil’s food cakes, ice cream & chocolate sauce, chocolate pudding.
- Canned peaches work well.
Elegance and intrigue!
The 1920s were the era of elegant food and elaborate presentation. If you are a master chef and/or want to treat your guests to authentic fare from the times, you may want to consider this lavish menu from the period.
Appetizers — Gravlax Canapés • Shrimp Canapés • Oysters on the Half Shell• Stuffed Mushroom Caps
Sides — Tomato Onion Panade • Smashed Red Potatoes • Broccoli and Cauliflower with Garlic and Oil • Rice Pilaf
Main — Beef Tenderloin with Marinated Walnut Sauce • Chicken Amandine• Rack of Lamb with Mustard Sauce • Magret of Duck with Fig and Port Sauce
Dessert — Vanilla Rice Pudding • Chocolate Mousse Truffle Cups • Create your own fruit salad
Dessert
Desserts – Let Them Eat Cake!
Fans of Gatsby know that he is famous for liking his cake – especially for his love of lemon cake – of which he made Daisy 32 versions of it.
That being said, Lemon Cake would be especially appropriate for the party!
Decorate it with pearls, feathers, etc. – add a bloody knife to seal the deal!
For the blood, you can use red frosting or use some strawberry jelly, melt a smidge in the microwave, then drizzle over the cake for an ooey-gooey yummy look and taste!
Other dessert ideas to compliment the theme:
- Set up a dessert table with treats like mini cupcakes, macarons, and petit fours, and display them on vintage cake stands or platters.
- Use a sign that says “Sweets Table” or “Dessert Bar.”
- Cookies can be as elaborate as you wish.
- Deadly desserts always go great at a mystery party
Drinks
DRINKS
What’s more Gatsby than Champagne? And there are multiple ways to serve it!
- Chilled with an ice bucket. Makes for a great set-up and pictures.
- Make a Champagne Tower. This makes a great centerpiece, as well as a fun way to serve it!
- How to make a champagne tower!
- Here is a link to a simple, non-functioning champagne tower
- Individual sized champagnes – add a straw for a little pizzaz!
- Killer Chillers! Serve your champagne with a blood-rimmed glass. Adds a little sweetness to the drink, as well as a little murder! Instructions and recipe included in mystery purchase.
COCKTAILS on the RISE:
With the advent of cheaply-made illegal alcohol during Prohibition, they quickly became popular, often to cover the taste of the inferior alcohol. Fashionable parties with fashionable drinks.
Here’s where we found some great recipes for cocktails from that time period.
- Prohibition Era Cocktails
- Cocktails of the 1920s
- Classic Cocktails
- Blackberry Bramble
- Gin Fizz
- Bees Knees
Ways to serve cocktails to the masses.
- Consider premixing and setting in small pitchers.
- Here are some drink recipes that go great in pitchers or punchbowls!
- Serve up your cocktails in batches: Here’s how!
- Hire a bartender for the night!
- Use a vintage bar cart to serve drinks, and add vintage decanters and glassware for a touch of elegance.
- Bathtub Gin was a thing of the times. Consider serving up your bottled beverage/s- in a bathtub filled with ice.
MOCKTAILS
If alcohol isn’t on the menu – or you want to add another choice for your booze-free friends to be fancy – check out these Mocktails:
- Magic Apple
- Citrus Fizz
- Grapefruit Thyme Mocktail
- Honey Roasted Pear Sparkling Cocktails and Mocktails
- Rose Lemon Spritzer.
- Soft drinks garnished with fruit & fruit juices (ginger ale with maraschino cherry juice, decorated with cherries)
- Ginger Ale
- Coca-Cola
- Kool-Aid
- Lemonade
- Punch
- Orange Pekoe Tea
Music Ideas
Spotify Playlist
Click the image to access our Spotify Playlist!
Other Music Ideas
RAGTIME
An early type of jazz, in vogue from about 1895 to 1920, usually written out rather than improvised. Most ragtime was played on the piano. Scott Joplin was the most famous composer of ragtime. Find it here.
JAZZ
The jazz decade saw the emergence of many of the great figures who defined the music for the world. Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith, Earl Hines, Bix Beiderbecke, Fats Waller, Jack Teagarden, Fletcher Henderson – these giants set the standards for blues singing, big band arrangements, and solo improvisation that are the foundations for jazz. Find it here.
DO THE CHARLESTON
Originated in the early 20’s in illegal drinking places during the time of prohibition. The combination of a particular type of jazz music and the highly polished, slippery floors of the Speakeasies gave rise to an in and out flicking of the feet which essentially characterized the dance. See downloadable instructions above. Find it here.
SWING
A form of jazz music that developed during the 1920s. Swing is distinguished by a strong rhythm section, medium to fast tempo, and the distinctive swing time rhythm that is common to many forms of jazz. Find it here.
FOR FREE MUSIC
Try your local library for a number of compilations from the time.
Host Information
Have a Dance Contest!
Have a Dance Contest!
The Charleston originated in the early 20’s in illegal drinking places during the time of prohibition. The combination of a particular type of jazz music and the highly polished, slippery floors of the Speakeasies gave rise to an in and out flicking of the feet which essentially characterized the dance.
If you don’t see the video below, refresh your browser!
Follow this link to learn how to Dance the Charleston.
One of our hosts chose to teach her crew the Charleston and even SING!
Pinterest Board
Pinterest Board
For even more party planning ideas, check out our Murder at Gatsby’s Gala Pinterest Board here. It is filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc. for the perfect Murder at Gatsby’s Gala party!
Creating Your Photo Spot
Creating Your Photo Spot
Give your guests an unforgettable souvenir by setting up a photo area where they can capture a picture of themselves in character.
A few suggestions:
• Pick a place where there will be good lighting.
• Accessories and decorations can make a difference. Have some extra props on hand that your guests can pose with.
• An easy way to create a background is to use a “scene setter.” These affordable rolls of images transform your room instantly and make for a good backdrop to your picture.
• Make sure there is enough room to fit everyone into the frame.
• For individual shots of guests, designate someone to be in charge of pictures as your guests arrive.
o, Consider your character list and which character would fit the role of taking the picture. I.e., if you want mug shots, perhaps ask the investigator to be in charge of taking the pictures.
• For a group picture, take one just before the introduction is read or right after the solution is read (before people may start heading out).
o These are two times when you can count on everyone being around and attentive.
Utilize ALL the Extras
Utilize ALL the Extras
Once you order, in your mystery packet you will receive directions and/or printables to make unique and original decorations specific to your party!
Included will be:
- How to make a Styrofoam brick wall
- Liquor crate labels (6 designs)
- Juice Joint Graphics (7 designs)
- DESIGNED MENU (1 design you can personalize with your menu items)
- POLICE LINE-UP BOARD (A design you can personalize with your own party date)
- WANTED POSTERS FOR MUGSY, SAL AND NICK (3 designs)
- AUTOGRAPHED MOBSTER PICTURES (9 posters)
- LIQUOR LABEL DESIGNS (14 labels)
And More…
Win a FREE Party!
Win a FREE Party!
Each month we highlight one of our customers who has posted on our blog and award them a FREE party!
To get your $5 coupon AND be entered in the Party Of the Month contest for a chance to win a FREE party,
please email nompartyofthemonth@gmail.com
Don’t forget to add all the important details and party highlights that made your party one to remember! We love to hear about all of the hard work you, as host, put into your party. From the decor to the food, costumes, whatever. As well as how you and your guests acted (and reacted!) throughout the night! Everything that made your party one your guests will never forget — tell us about it! And be sure to attach some pictures!!!
Upon submitting, we will email you back a coupon to use for $5 off your next party AND enter you in our “Party of the Month” contest, where you could win a FREE party! Once submitted, you will not have to resubmit, but will be entered EVERY MONTH until your party wins!
Check out some of our past winners here! Night of Mystery POM Blogs
Tips
All of the information regarding how to run your Murder at Gatsby’s Gala party can be found online at Night of Mystery. We highly suggest that you take time to look over our website and download the Murder at Gatsby’s Gala preview file. Upon reading the introduction file of this 1920s murder mystery game, it will give you a better understanding about how the parties are run and what to expect once you purchase a full mystery file.
If you still have question, the Frequently Asked Questions page at Night of Mystery is a great resource or you can contact us.
If you still have question, the Frequently Asked Questions page at Night of Mystery is a great resource or you can contact us.
Since our games are custom written for the size of the party (ie, we don’t just create a mystery with 8 characters and then keep adding more characters to it), each mystery size is unique unto itself. That being said, going from 10-15 version to 15-20 version, will not only add in more characters, but it will change the storylines of the existing characters, and vice-versa in going from a larger version to a smaller one.
Because of this, WE STRONGLY SUGGEST you get a guest count before formally ordering. You can do so by downloading an invitation, inviting your guests and then purchasing your mystery once you have a more accurate number of people attending. Unfortunately, if you find yourself purchasing the wrong sized party, you will have to purchase another version of the mystery for the size you want unless you are moving from the 15-20 version to the 20+ version.
You can download an invitation here before ordering.
Check out some of these movies or t.v. shows set-in the 1920s: Boardwalk Empire (HBO series), Public Enemies, The Cotton Club, The Untouchables, Millers Crossing, Once Upon A Time in America or click here for a whole list.
OTHER RESOURCES:
– Look above on this page in the Costumes, Decorations and Food & Music tabs.
– Be sure to check out our Murder at Gatsby’s Gala Pinterest Board that is filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc.
– All of the *Extras* that come with the mystery!!! (see below for more info!)
OTHER RESOURCES:
– Look above on this page in the Costumes, Decorations and Food & Music tabs.
– Be sure to check out our Murder at Gatsby’s Gala Pinterest Board that is filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc.
– All of the *Extras* that come with the mystery!!! (see below for more info!)
Provide an assortment of “Gifts from the Capo” to help your guests “get into character” including: cigars, white scarves, boas, 20’s high fashion beads, headbands & feathers, fedoras, eyelashes, moustaches & sideburns for disguise and water pistols for self defense.
For even more party planning ideas, check out our Murder at Gatsby’s Gala Pinterest Board here. It is s filled with ideas for recipes, costumes, decorations, etc. for the perfect Murder at Gatsby’s Gala party!
Once you order, in your mystery packet you will receive directions and/or printables to make unique and original decorations specific to your party!
- Included will be:
– HOW TO MAKE A STYROFOAM “BRICK” WALL
– LIQUOR CRATE LABELS (6 designs)
– JUICE JOINT GRAPHICS (7 designs)
– DESIGNED MENU (1 design you can personalize with your menu items)
– POLICE LINE-UP BOARD (1 design you can personalize with your own party date)
– WANTED POSTERS FOR MUGSY, SAL AND NICK (3 designs)
– AUTOGRAPHED MOBSTER PICTURES (9 posters)
– LIQUOR LABEL DESIGNS (14 labels)
AND MORE!
Each month we highlight one of our customers who has posted on our blog and award them a FREE party!
To get your $5 coupon AND be entered in the Party Of the Month contest for a chance to win a FREE party, please email nompartyofthemonth@gmail.com
Don’t forget to add all the important details and party highlights that made your party one to remember! We love to hear about all of the hard work you, as host, put into your party. From the decor, to the food, costumes, whatever. As well as how you and your guests acted (and reacted!) throughout the night! Everything that made your party one your guests will never forget — tell us about it! And be sure to attach some pictures!!!
Upon submitting, we will email you back a coupon to use for $5 off your next party AND enter you in our “Party of the Month” contest, where you could win a FREE party! One submitted, you will not have to resubmit, but will be entered EVERY MONTH until your party wins!
Check out some of our past winners here! Night of Mystery POM Blogs
Thanks again for hosting with Night of Mystery and we can’t wait to hear all about your party!!!
