Audrey Gelman, co-founder of the Wing, is hosting murder mystery evenings at her Hudson Valley guesthouse. The events channel her childhood love of play into an immersive theater experience. Guests are invited to step into a fictional crime scene and solve a whodunit over the course of the weekend.
The guesthouse, located in the scenic countryside, serves as the stage for these interactive performances. Attendees take on character roles, following clues and interrogating suspects. The experience blends scripted drama with improvisation, requiring full participation from guests.
Gelman designed the evenings to revive a sense of childlike wonder and creativity. The events are intentionally small, with limited capacity to maintain intimacy. This format allows each guest to feel central to the unfolding narrative.
Professional actors guide the mystery, ensuring the plot remains coherent and engaging. The setting itself—a historic property with ornate decor—adds to the atmosphere. Details like period costumes and candlelit dinners complete the immersion.
The events are not open to the general public, with attendance by invitation only. Gelman personally curates the guest list, drawing from her network of friends and colleagues. This exclusivity reinforces the private, theatrical nature of the experience.
Murder mystery evenings have seen a resurgence in popularity as people seek offline, communal activities. Gelman’s approach updates the classic game for a modern audience, emphasizing storytelling over gimmicks. The Hudson Valley location offers a tranquil escape from city life.
For participants, the weekend offers a chance to engage in collaborative problem-solving and creative play. The focus remains on the shared journey of solving the mystery, not on winning or losing. Gelman’s venture highlights a growing trend of experiential entertainment rooted in personal connection.
