Script FAQs

Here are some Q & A's for representatives of performance groups seeking scripts to produce for theater groups outside of the Act4Mystery performance area:

How much does it cost to use one of your scripts for a performance?

The performance royalty fee is $55.50 per performance. When you request a script, you will pay a non-refundable $5.50 deposit and the requested script will be emailed to you. If you decide to use the script for your performance, the balance of $50 must be paid online. Once the payment is received, you will be emailed the handouts and clues that accompany the script. For multiple performances, remaining payments must be sent or paid online within fourteen days.

What am I buying?

You are buying the right to perform a play written by Paula Hilton, which has been copyrighted by the United States Library of Congress. You are also buying the right to make the necessary number of copies of the specified play needed for your performance and to make copies of the handouts that go along with the play.

Is this like the murder mystery game you can buy?

No. This is an event where your guests watch a show, listen, laugh and try to solve (as teams), while performers put on the show for them. Most plays do, however, have audience interaction of some kind.

How long are the plays?

The plays are 30 - 40 pages in length, and with a a 3-course meal, the evening takes about 3 hours from start to finish.

What else do I get besides the play?

Each play comes with a README file explaining when each handout is to be distributed, a prop list, handouts containing written clues, the solution sheet to enable your teams to solve the crime, and an answer sheet.

Why do you refuse scripts to groups based on location?

My own performance troupe, Act4Mystery, routinely performs in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, DeFuniak Springs, Crestview, Panama City Beach, Pensacola, Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Milton and Pensacola Beach, and has traveled as far away as Montgomery and Tallahassee to put on shows. So if you're in our area, I'll be happy to send you a quote for Act4Mystery to perform at your event.

Are the plays suitable for children?

The plays contain adult themes. Everything is presented in a comedic style, but in addition to murder, there is often adultery as a sub-plot. None of my plays contain drug or gang-related material, nor is there any "bad" language included in the dialog, but in general, my plays are written for adult entertainment.

How many actors do I need, and do they need to professional actors?

No. Hundreds of groups around the world have performed my shows using people with little or no experience. Some shows are easier then others, and I'll be happy to give you a recommendation if you need more guidance. My shows have between 5 and 7 actors.

Where can the shows be performed?

Anywhere you can serve a meal. My shows have been successfully performed in a variety of locations, including restaurants, cafeterias, auditoriums, church meeting rooms, banquet facilities, conference centers, convention centers, under tents, apartments, private homes, and recently, on a train.

Are the shows scripted or is it mostly improvisation?

My shows are all fully scripted with little or no improvisation.

I have other questions that need to be answered.

Act4Mystery phone number is (850) 862-2885, or send an email by CLICKING HERE.