Life Behind the Red: Murder Mystery Youth Activity

As a combined Young Men/Young Women activity, the young women hosted a murder mystery activity. The murder mystery was called "Murder Under the Big Top".

Decorations

We decorated the church living room and it turned out really cute.

The Big Tent

The Circus Feel

Hargrove Family Circus

Snakes

Circus Animals

The Circus Animals

The finished product

Costumes

Each person was assigned a character/role to play in the mystery. We were given a brief description of our character and encouraged to dress up as that character. Things just are not as available here in China as they are in the states. Maybe they are but we just don't know how to find them so we had to be creative. Rachel and I did each other's hair to help add too our costumes and we turned out with some wild pictures!

Hair Party

Big Hair for the Big Top

The dressing room

The final product!

Rachel's tight rope walker hair

Food
I was in charge of the food and was creative in finding carnival food. I even found hot dogs on a stick here in China. The youth seemed to really enjoy the food!

Hot Dogs!

Concession Stand

Character List

Harold Hargrove (Austin)—Bossman. As owner of the circus, Harold has been cleaning up his image and the circus to make it succeed. Whether his tactics are legal or lethal is the question.

Matilda Hargrove (Amy)—Harold’s wife. Even though she is not in command, others may differ with that opinion. Even with her exquisite tastes, there is little this woman cannot get. Or that Harold will get for her.

Boomer Jackson (Ben)—Ringmaster. The voice of the circus, Boomer is in charge of the performers and commanding the perfect show…his job depends on it.

Finley Fiscal (Chase)—Ticket Taker. Being your first impression as you enter the show, Finley is one who has mastered their appearance… but what is hiding under the exterior?

Ariel Swinger (Maddy)—Trapeze Artist. Currently performing in the center ring, some believe Ariel got her position by luck, some by talent and still others by her connections.

Robert Flyer (Vern) —Catcher. As Ariel’s sidekick, Robert gets little credit for the fame that she claims, but she would be nowhere without him.

Twisty Kristy (Sisi) —Acrobat. With her intense passion for being in the center ring, Kristy wants nothing more than to be in the spotlight and she will do anything to get there.

Nick Dagger (Daniel) —Knife Thrower. Heartbroken by Twisty Kristy, is Nick out to win Kristy’s heart back or to break it?

Skylar Toppolet (Rachel) —Tightrope Walker. After being injured, Skylar is convinced that it is only a matter of time before reclaiming a prominent, proper position in the spotlight!

Ruby (Tanner)—Clown. Making everyone laugh is Ruby’s position, but at what cost?

Patty Pachyderm (TBD)—Animal Performer. Patty has a way with large, obtrusive temperaments but taming them is another story.

Cat Levens (Bethany) —Lion Tamer. With a few circus animals missing, Cat is on the prowl for finding the cause.

Ricky Mammal (Clint) —Menagerie Man. Working with the exotic animals, Ricky thrives on the thrill of danger and reward.

Rowan McGregor (Matt) —Midway Director. Rowan will use his knowledge, wit and expertise to run a successful midway, all for the boss’ approval.

Casey Saber (Morgan)—Sword Swallower. The most loyal circus employee around, Casey will do anything to keep the circus operating at a profit.

DJ Ink (Abby) —Tattooed Spectacle. With skin of ink, it is hard to know if DJ’s frightening appearance is for show or a tell-tale sign of her true demeanor.

Harley Bell (Rebecca)—Strong Person. Harley’s physique has gotten her far in life. However, to get what Harley wants, she may have to use more than intimidation.

Mandy Small (Lily) —Skinny Woman. The tiniest freak in the show, Mandy is out to prove she is a force to be reckoned with.

Payton Protector (Lia - if coming) —Head of Security. Hired to end the corruption, Payton has more on their plate than they bargained for.

Agent Swift (Emily) —FBI Agent. On assignment, this agent is secretive about the real purpose of their mission.