Reinvention for Writers
In Times of Pandemic
Showcase Interviews Master Mystery Productions
The appropriately based not-too-far from Death Valley Master Mystery Productions staged made-to-order interactive murder mysteries, even playing Death Valley’s legendary Amargosa Opera House, until the pandemic came along. Challenges notwithstanding, they adapted. We talked to MMP owner/producer/director/publicist Daniel Stallings about riding out the storm and finding solutions.
Showcase: When did Master Mystery Productions start?
Stallings: In 2015. It began when I wanted to have an interactive-mystery party for my 15th birthday for about five friends. I wrote it. It worked. We had fun. Some time later, my aunt told my father that she planned to buy a pre-packaged mystery for a Red Hat Society event. My dad said, “You know your nephew does those.” So she approached me. This turned into “Murder at the Red Fez,” a hit. After that, people kept asking me, “When’s the next one?” From this humble launching pad, I went into business.
Showcase: And right into success and smooth sailing….
Stallings: For years, yes. Until Covid, when I transitioned to digital shows. Fortunately, I have experience in audio, video and podcasting. I put one on for free on YouTube. This blossomed into a digital series, “Regions Beyond,” a grown-up Scooby-Do meets Blair Witch Project.
Showcase: Have you found new clients?
Stallings: Out of the blue, I got an email from McArthur Middle School, suggesting that MMP do a digital production for their 7th and 8th grade students who couldn’t do field trips during the virus, but had money in the budget for outside activities. I did a Sherlock Holmes-inspired, 1940s radio-style interactive program for them about a missing girl in London, “Mum’s the Word.” This morphed into a bigger offering that people paid to see.
Showcase: Where do things stand now?
Stallings: Setbacks like these lead to new ways to develop material. One thing I’m very proud of is that while other theatrical groups had to fold, we’re still here, still growing, still drawing crowds and, finally – again – filling the seats.