Performing Arts Office Hosts 25th Dinner Theatre
Students staged an interactive murder mystery production at Boston's David J. Sargent Hall.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Dance
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The Performing Arts Office celebrated its 25th annual dinner theatre production with an interactive murder mystery event. Guests engaged with actors throughout the evening as they remained in character.
Why it matters
The production serves as a collaborative environment designed to welcome students with varying levels of performance experience. Participants take on all aspects of the show, including acting, lighting, and costume design.
This year marked the 25th anniversary of the annual dinner theatre program. The production spanned three days and required daily rehearsals for the cast and crew.
The players
Kathy Maloney
She is the director of performing arts who has directed 23 of the program's 25 annual dinner theatre productions.
Performing Arts Office
This department oversees student theatrical productions and hosts the annual dinner theatre series.
The details
Students managed all technical and performance roles, including lighting, sound, makeup, and backstage work. Actors circulated through the George N. Keches Room to interact directly with audience members throughout the mystery.
Timeline
Kathy Maloney began her tenure as associate director in 2003.
Kathy Maloney assumed the role of director of performing arts in 2025.
The dinner theatre production took place on October 22, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This production reinforces the long-standing tradition of university-led dinner theatre programs. It highlights how educational institutions utilize these platforms to maintain consistent student engagement over multiple decades.
The production provides community members with an interactive and immersive theatre experience within the university setting. Attendees interested in future student-led arts programming can monitor university event calendars for upcoming academic performances.
The takeaway
The success of this 25-year program underscores the value of hands-on student participation in theatrical production. Aspiring performers can gain experience in all facets of show business by participating in such comprehensive student-run events.
Further reading
Explore more local performances and arts initiatives in our Boston Dance section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Suffolk Journal.
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