The Mystery Shop
Interactive Mysteries for All AgesSinclair

 


FAQ

Here is a list of our most frequently asked questions:

Answers:

How many people are in your shows?

It depends on the shows:

Murder in Three Acts: Four actors and two staff = six
Children's Mystery: Four
CSI: Kids: Two facilitators
Prime Suspect: Two people; an "auctioneer" and a "banker"
Workshop (MOD Squad): Two instructors
Storytelling: Varies from three to five tellers and actors per show

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What is your lead time for booking dates?

We try to be as flexible as possible.  We'd like at least a month, but we may be able to accommodate a group with less time.  There may be a 10% RUSH fee if booked within two weeks of the performance date (depending on the circumstances), and subject to cast availability.

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Are you the people on the train?

No.

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Do you have any references?

As a major contributor to the entertainment market, we have developed a long list of satisfied customers. A list of our clients and letters of reference are available upon request.

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Do you accept credit cards?

Yes - Visa and MasterCard.

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Do you require a deposit?

Yes. There are three different deposit options:

1.    DEPOSIT: 20% non-transferable, non-refundable deposit; net 30 days on the balance (30 after the show). You are under no financial obligation, OTHER THAN THE 20% DEPOSIT, if you cancel the show at least seven days before the show date.

2.    CREDIT CARD: The Mystery Shop will be happy to accept your credit card number (Visa or Mastercard) to hold the date. If you cancel the show, we will process the 20% deposit from your card. We will invoice you for the full amount after the show, which is due within 30 days of the performance.

3.    NO DEPOSIT: We will waive the 20% deposit, but you must guarantee that, even if the show cancels, you are responsible for the full amount (not just the deposit) within 30 days of the scheduled performance date.

For your convenience, final payment can be made via cash, check or credit card (Visa or Mastercard) within 30 days of the performance.

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What if we have to cancel?

You are under no financial obligation , OTHER THAN THE 20% DEPOSIT, if you cancel the show at least seven days before the show date.

If you need to reschedule the original date, we'll be happy to use the current agreement and deposit if you tell us the new date no later than two weeks from your phone call. For instance, if you call us on February 1 to let us know that you need to reschedule, you must give us the new date (any date) no later than February 14. If we do not hear from you by February 14, we'll need to start all over again with a new agreement for the new date, and an additional deposit will be required.

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What if we have to cancel because of weather?

This will be decided on a show-by-show basis (school closings, etc.). We will be as flexible as possible, especially since we don't want to drive in bad weather either. We would like as much lead time as possible, of course, so we have time to contact the appropriate cast members. We will be happy to work with you to reschedule.

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What size group can you accommodate?

We have no minimum number of people for any of our shows, but the maximum number depends on the show:

Murder in Three Acts: 250 people (groups of over 100 people will work in teams to reduce "traffic flow")
Prime Suspect: 40 people
Workshop (MOD Squad): 50 people
Children's Mystery: 100 children
CSI: Kids: 20 children
Storytelling: No maximum number
S.T.E.P. (Storytelling Enrichment Program): 50 people

We limit the numbers of people because our shows are so interactive and participatory. However, we do have very attractive Multiple Booking Rates to accommodate larger groups.

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Does your group travel?

Yes. Our normal territory is the entire Chicago area and surrounding suburbs. We also have a two-tiered Time and Travel Policy (with additional charges) for locations outside of our regular area (depending on miles). Special arrangements can also be made for block bookings, etc. Ask for details.

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Do you belong to any professional groups?

Yes, our professional affiliations include:  Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce and Women in Business, West Suburban Theatre Connection, and My Referral Directory.

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Do you ever do shows late at night (i.e., post-prom, lock-ins, etc.)?

Yes, but there is an additional charge if the show starts between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. The show is also subject to cast availability. Ask for details.

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Are your shows age-specific?

Yes. We have two children's mysteries: Grades K-2 and Grades 3-6 and a children’s history mystery. The children solve a mystery with age-appropriate puzzles that are challenging, but accessible. Also, in keeping with family-sensitive values, there are NO murders in our children's mystery programs - only good, clean baffling fun!

The hands-on mystery workshop (M.O.D. Squad) can be adapted to any age - 9 through 90. Challenging for adults yet accessible enough for children (fourth grade and up).

Our storytelling program is suited for any age. It's ideal for mixed groups, where there is a wide range of ages - perfect family entertainment!

Our murder mysteries are geared for adult audiences, but several of our scripts are perfectly appropriate for Middle School and High School students.

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Do you use audience members as suspects and victims?

No. We've chosen not to do that because of quality control. Our scripted mysteries are three dimensional and complex. We avoid caricatures and stereotypes (i.e., Tony the Gangster). There is a definite beginning, middle and end with a logical progression.

We feel that including the audience as cast members relies too heavily on that "unknown factor" over which we have no control. Also, many people are uncomfortable "in the spotlight" and we don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or under pressure.

That is NOT to say, however, that there is no audience involvement.  ALL of our programs are very interactive and participatory. They are also a lot of fun!

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What is your mission statement?

The Mystery Shop is a traveling theatre specializing in adult and children’s interactive mysteries and programs.  We are committed to providing quality entertainment to an active and involved audience.  We stimulate the mind as well as the funny bone.

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Any other questions? We'll be happy to "clue" you in!
Give us a call at (630) 690-1105 (or e-mail us at tms@TheMysteryShop.com).

 

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