Recently, I decided to try something completely different and booked a ticket to Mysteriously Yours Mystery Dinner Theatre. Located in the heart of Toronto, this interactive entertainment venue has been operating for over three decades, and after experiencing it firsthand, I can see why it’s developed such a loyal following.
What Makes Mysteriously Yours Different
Launched in 1987 in Toronto, Mysteriously Yours is a commercial theatre company dedicated to producing and presenting interactive murder mysteries. What struck me immediately was how this isn’t your typical dinner and show experience – it’s something entirely different that requires audience participation and engagement.
My Experience: How It Actually Works
The evening began with a buffet in an intimate theatre setting. The mystery and actors didn’t appear until after the meal, which allowed everyone to enjoy their dinner and get settled before the real entertainment began. It was both exciting and slightly unsettling in the best possible way.
The intrigue really began when we met some colorful characters around dessert time. What sets Mysteriously Yours apart is its interactive format – this definitely isn’t passive entertainment. I found myself questioning suspects, examining clues, and working with other audience members to solve the crime. The venue creates solvable mysteries based on familiar themes with lots of comedy and audience participation.
The Show I Attended
I attended their “Murder at Sea” production, which was cleverly written and well-executed. The show is a nautical-themed mystery that loosely parodies classic TV shows and movies like Gilligan’s Island, The Love Boat, and Titanic. The writers did a great job weaving these familiar references into the mystery plot, creating plenty of comedic moments that had the audience chuckling throughout the evening. The plot was intricate enough to challenge me as an amateur detective while remaining accessible and entertaining. The actors never broke character, which really enhanced the immersive experience.
Let Me Be Honest: This Isn’t For Everyone
I need to be upfront here – this type of entertainment isn’t for everyone. If you prefer traditional theatre where you sit quietly and observe, or if you’re uncomfortable with audience participation, this might not be your cup of tea. However, if you enjoy interactive entertainment and appreciate good improv work, you’ll likely have a great time.
The actors were genuinely skilled at improvisation and staying in character while dealing with unexpected audience interactions. Some guests really got into the spirit of things, while others seemed more reserved, but the performers handled both types of audiences seamlessly.
The Venue and Food
The venue itself is decent – it’s intimate and functional, though not luxurious. The buffet was surprisingly good for dinner theatre food. I’m typically not a fish eater, but I have to give credit where it’s due – the salmon was exceptionally good. The variety was adequate, and the quality exceeded my expectations for this type of venue.
What Other Guests Are Saying
During my visit, I chatted with other guests who seemed to be having a great time. One couple told me it was their third visit, saying “The food was delicious, the service was top notch and the prices were very reasonable.” Another guest mentioned how much they appreciated that the actors “never broke characters and would ask questions to get us guessing on clues who was the murderer.”
I also overheard someone commenting that “The show really succeeded in making you think, given the intricate but not overly complicated plot,” which aligned with my own experience.
Practical Details
Mysteriously Yours is conveniently located on the Yonge Subway line, wheelchair accessible, and has on-site parking (for an additional charge). Rates range from $50-$135 per person plus service charges, which I found reasonable considering you get both the buffet meal and interactive mystery performance.
Different Themes Throughout the Year
They offer various themed productions throughout the year, including:
- Murder At Sea! – A mystery of Titanic proportions
- Murder on The Disorient Express – A clever twist on the classic train mystery
- No Time To Kill – A suspenseful whodunit with contemporary flair
- Foul Play! – Solve this mystery in one, two, three strikes your out!
- Tee Time for Murder – A golf-themed mystery perfect for sports enthusiasts
This variety means repeat visits offer genuinely different experiences.
My Final Thoughts
After experiencing Mysteriously Yours firsthand, I can say it’s definitely unique entertainment in Toronto. The combination of good actors, decent venue, and quality buffet dining creates an evening that’s memorable – though again, only if you’re open to interactive entertainment.
The professional actors, engaging storylines, and participatory format create something you won’t find at traditional dinner theatres. If you enjoy improv, mystery solving, and don’t mind being part of the show, this could be a great night out.
For those ready to put their detective skills to the test while enjoying a decent meal (seriously, try the salmon), visit www.mysteriouslyyours.com to book tickets. Just remember – in this theatre, everyone’s a suspect, and you might find yourself more involved than you expected.
Ready to solve a mystery? Book your tickets, but make sure you’re prepared for an interactive evening where dinner and detection collide – and where staying in your seat quietly isn’t really an option.
