What does the fee for hosting a game include?
The fee will cover the host or hosts’ services in costume and their character for the duration of your event plus event support via email or phone in the lead-up to your party. Any applicable travel costs will be quoted separately. The host will also provide themed background music, usually played via the venue’s sound system.
How does payment work?
Bare Elements Productions will provide an invoice. You can pay via EFT, Paypal or credit card. A deposit is required to secure a booking and the balance is required two weeks’ before an event. For events booked with less than two weeks notice full payment will be required at the time of booking.
What is your Booking & Cancellation Policy?
To confirm bookings we require a deposit of 25% of the full show fee and the remainder, including any applicable meal costs, travel costs or hire charges being payable two weeks before the show date. If the show is cancelled then the deposit will be refunded less a cancellation fee of $100. If the show is cancelled with less than 14 days notice the full deposit is not refundable and charges may apply for other costs.
Which theme should I choose?
Bare Elements Productions is able to offer a wide range of story line and themes. Choose a theme from a particular period if you and your guests have a special connection to that era. The theme choice is really part of the fun so simply choose the one that appeals to you the most. In the end, if the theme appeals to your sense of fun, it will most likely work very well for your guests.
Can themes be adapted to suit my event?
Yes, most likely! The stories are pre-written but if you are having a particular type of event (e.g. hens’ night, baby shower, birthday) and would like the activities to reflect the occasion, we are happy to discuss the options. Generally, this can be done within the usual hosting fee, however if the adaptation involves a large amount of research and design or extra materials to be purchased, we may quote an additional fee.
How many hosts will I need?
For fewer than 40 guests, one host is fine. For over 40 guests, we recommend additional hosts to ensure all your guests can be fully involved. We work with groups up to 120 guests and can provide ideas and quotes accordingly.
How much space will I need?
A venue is appropriate if there is enough space for all guests to stand comfortably in a circle as well as gather into smaller groups (seated in a cluster or around tables). It is always best to ensure the activity levels will not disturb other patrons (e.g. in a restaurant), and if the activities will not be affected by other venue noise, such as a band in the next room. If you are using a ‘Murder in a Box’ game, detailed venue advice is included in your kit.
Do we all play a character?
Yes, each game allows for each guest to have a small character to play, as much or as little as they choose. These can be pre-allocated or allocated on arrival.
How long will the murder mystery last?
The game will usually run for between 2.5 and 3 hours. The style of catering and number of courses will impact the run time. It’s generally best to wait until all guests have arrived before starting the activities. The game is designed to be the feature of the evening, so late arrivals may make the evening run longer. We can modify activities to meet any strict time limits you may have.
Should we dress up?
ABSOLUTELY!! Dress ups are encouraged but not required. Having your guests in costume will really add to the ambience. Some basic decorating of the venue is also a great addition, and you’d be surprised how a few inexpensive and easy-to-source items can turn your venue into a 1970s disco or a red-carpet affair!
Do you provide costumes?
Sorry we do not! We certainly encourage guests to dress up, however, the logistics of providing costumes for your guests is not practical or hygienic.
Can I serve food and drinks?
Of course! Food and drinks are a great addition to all the games, as the activities include breaks where guests can have a bite to eat or grab a drink. The refreshments could also be themed to enhance the event. You may choose to cater the event yourself. Bare Elements Productions also works with a range of venue partners in some areas and we can connect you with them to discuss your menu choices.
What about music?
Background music is a great addition to the activities. The host will provide some themed music or you may like to use a selection of your own favourite music.
What do I need to do on the night?
The host will arrive at your venue well before your guests arrive. After that, you are free to relax and make the most of your event. The host will liaise with you and the venue to co-ordinate the timing of food and drinks.
Will there be prizes?
Most murder-mystery products come with themed certificates for ‘winners’ and notable players, however some clients like to augment these with small prizes such as chocolates, wine, gift vouchers or suitably themed prizes such as plastic ‘Oscar’ statuettes or mini mirror balls. These can be great fun, but are in no way essential to the evening, as the emphasis is on the sleuthing process rather than being first to solve the mystery! Please note our hosting fee does not include prizes.
If we haven’t managed to answer your questions here please do not hesitate to contact us
