By: Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre
TEN YEARS AGO, THIS MONTH marks the first show at our blessed little business downtown at 164 Church Street, The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre. There were maybe 12 guests at that first performance – and halfway through the show, the mailman wandered onto the stage because we’d left the side door unlocked. (He was so traumatized that for the remainder of his Postal Service days he would leave our mail by the front door.)
We've come a long way since 2012 with some thirteen major shows, daily sellouts, and favored reviews. We've watched amazed as sights like TripAdvisor place us in the top Things to Do in Charleston. Our mission to make a living while sharing some positivity and joy has been successful. But most of all, we've experienced the most wonderful relationships with staff and guests. We can only hope now that somewhere, somehow that poor mailman has finally recovered.
If you haven't made it to one of our comedy-mystery shows these last ten years, now's the time to make up for lost laughs. Shows run most nights, and come with a la carte drinks, snacks & homemade desserts. But the best part: Audience volunteers who choose to (and you don't have to) get to play roles in the show by simply standing at their seats on cue and reading our prepared scripts. Shows are geared towards adults but are family friendly.
What is this?
The Black Fedora is a live, audience-interactive comedy mystery theatre located at 164 Church Steet in downtown Charleston, SC.
Yes, but what IS this?
The Black Fedora Theatre's comic mysteries are similar to a play, though instead of a set, the actors use the whole space as the stage. Shows are often zany, with witty wordplay, and feature roles for up to 20 volunteer audience members! (You do not have to volunteer.)
How does it work?
Guests sit at booths and cocktail tables in a cozy theatre, enjoying snacks, desserts and drinks while watching our actors interact with volunteer audience members.
What do audience volunteers do?
At the top of the show volunteers are provided scripts. When it's their turn, they simply stand at their seats and read their parts.
Is it Broadway-style theatre?
Uh … no. While our shows are scripted, we're casual, often silly, slightly irreverent (though also clean), and highly interactive.
Is dinner included?
The ticket price is for the show only. But we offer a la carte homemade desserts, light appetizers, beer, wine, sodas, etc.
Can I bring my kids?
While the shows are for adults, they are appropriate for children, especially ages 9 and up. We use no bad language at all and say nothing crude.
What’s the best show?
The question really is, “Which show description appeals to you most?” We typically run each show at least once a week, so pick the plot that strikes you.
Where do I get tickets & Learn About the Shows?
At our box office at 164 Church Street, or at our website, https://www.charlestonmysteries.com/
