About the play

Think you've seen every murder mystery before? Think again.

A strange group of guests gathers at a mysterious mansion, and before long, someone turns up dead. Normally, that's when the brilliant detective steps in to identify the killer—but this mansion has a problem: everyone is a detective!
Sherlock Holmes, Nancy Drew, Miss Marple, Batman, and a wonderfully wacky collection of other sleuths are all determined to solve the crime. With competing theories, eccentric personalities, ridiculous clues, and more than a little detective one-upmanship, figuring out who did it may be harder than anyone expected.

And just when you think you've solved the mystery...think again. This hilarious whodunnit keeps both the detectives and the audience guessing right up to the very end with a different ending every night.

Fast, funny, and completely unpredictable, Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion is a family-friendly comedy you want to be a part of!

Character Breakdown

Seeking 10-20+ actors

All roles are open to performers of any ethnicity and gender. Although some of these characters are traditionally portrayed as male or female, our casting will not be limited by gender. We may reinterpret characters in creative ways—for example, Holmes could be Sherlock or Enola, Batman could be Batman or Batwoman, and so on. Bring us your interpretation of the character!

Some performers may also be cast in two different roles.

• Aggie: A devoted murder-mystery fan.
• Bobbi: A true-crime superfan who knows way too much.
• Conan: Has apparently visited the Murder Mansion over a dozen times.
• Dash: Literally sold their house so they could attend this event.
• Hannah: A murder-mystery fan who doesn't always keep up with every detail.
• 911 Operator: An offstage voice.
• Madame Doyle: The eccentric and dramatic owner of Madame Doyle's Museum for Crime and Justice—better known as the Murder Mansion. Madame Doyle is the host of the evening's fundraising event, where she has gathered some of the world's most famous detectives as special guests in an effort to raise money to keep her museum open. She is theatrical, larger-than-life, and prone to wonderfully over-the-top reactions. A great role for a performer who loves big comedy, strong character choices, and stealing the spotlight.
• Sherlock Holmes: The world's most famous detective—brilliant, curious, and always several steps ahead. Sherlock has a razor-sharp mind, quick wit, and a talent for solving even the most puzzling mysteries through logic and observation. Usually serious and focused, Sherlock can also be dramatic, eccentric, and delightfully theatrical when revealing the truth. A great role for someone with strong stage presence who enjoys playing clever, confident characters. A solid British accent would be a bonus, but is not required.
• Miss Marple: A sweet, unassuming older woman with a sharp eye and an even sharper mind. Miss Marple may seem like a quiet, kindly neighbor, but don't be fooled—she notices everything and often solves mysteries before the police do! Calm, clever, and polite, she uses her understanding of human nature and a lifetime of observation to uncover the truth. A great role for someone who enjoys playing a wise, thoughtful, and underestimated character. Ability to actually knit is a plus.
• Shaggy: The easygoing, goofy, and always-hungry member of the Mystery Crew. Shaggy may not be the bravest detective in the room, but he's loyal, funny, and somehow manages to stumble across clues when he isn't even trying. Known for his love of snacks and his hilarious reactions to spooky situations. Strong comedic timing and a distinctive character voice are especially helpful for this role.
• Velma: The brainy problem-solver of the Mystery Crew. Velma is intelligent, observant, logical, and often the first person to figure out what's really going on—although she may occasionally lose her glasses along the way! She can be blunt and no-nonsense, but her intelligence is a major asset to the team. A great role for someone who enjoys playing smart, confident characters with strong comedic potential.
• Daphne: A stylish, smart, and adventurous member of the Mystery Crew. Daphne may be known for her fashion sense, but she's also resourceful, brave, and ready to jump into action when things get serious. She often serves as the peacemaker of the group and isn't afraid to speak up or take a risk. Great for someone who can bring charm, confidence, energy, and courage to the stage.
• Fred: The confident and brave leader of the Mystery Crew. Fred loves solving mysteries, making plans, and—especially—setting traps! He's determined, organized, and always ready to take charge, although he can sometimes be a little too confident in his own ideas. A great role for someone with natural leadership energy who enjoys comedy and thinking on their feet.
• Batman: A mysterious, intense hero with a strong sense of justice. Batman is serious, focused, and fearless when it comes to solving crime. He relies on brains, bravery, detective skills, and an impressive collection of gadgets rather than superpowers. The role calls for someone who can play a calm, serious character while finding the comedy in just how seriously Batman takes himself. A distinctive growly, lower voice is helpful, but not required. The character is primarily seen as Batman rather than Bruce Wayne.
• Nancy Drew: A fearless young detective with a sharp mind and a strong sense of justice. Nancy is clever, curious, confident, and determined to uncover the truth—no matter how complicated the mystery becomes. She is resourceful, independent, and never backs down from a challenge. An excellent role for someone who enjoys playing a bold, intelligent character with strong instincts and leadership skills.
• Frank Hardy: The older and more serious of the Hardy brothers. Frank is smart, focused, and always thinking several steps ahead. He's good at solving puzzles, noticing small details, and staying calm under pressure. A natural leader, Frank approaches every mystery with logic and determination. Great for someone who enjoys playing a cool, confident detective.
• Joe Hardy: The younger and more energetic Hardy brother. Joe is brave, impulsive, quick-thinking, and always ready for the next adventure. He's just as determined as Frank to solve the case, but he's more likely to jump into action before thinking everything through. He has a big heart, a good sense of humor, and a fearless attitude that can sometimes get him into—and out of—trouble. This role has a youthful, energetic quality to play 8 years old.
• Sam Spade: A classic private detective who is cool, clever, and always ready with the right question. Sam is quick-witted and sharp-tongued, with a knack for spotting the truth in a world full of lies. With a tough attitude and plenty of detective swagger, Sam is the ultimate mystery-solver. A great role for someone who enjoys playing smooth, confident, slightly sarcastic characters with plenty of personality.
• Detective Christie: One of the two detectives called to the mansion to investigate the murder. Christie spends much of the show interviewing suspects, gathering clues, and working closely with their partner, Detective Kane. A good role for someone who enjoys playing a confident, capable character and working with another actor as a comedic team.
• Detective Kane: One of the two detectives called to the mansion to investigate the murder. Kane spends much of the show interviewing suspects, gathering clues, and working closely with their partner, Detective Christie. A good role for someone who enjoys playing a confident, capable character and building strong comedic chemistry with another actor.
• Ensemble: The fans, visitors, and event attendees at the Murder Mansion. These characters can have a lot of fun personality and may appear as murder-mystery superfans, true-crime enthusiasts, podcast hosts, butlers, maids, museum staff, and other guests. Some ensemble members may have specific featured moments or lines, while others may be part of larger group scenes. This is a great opportunity for performers who want to be part of the show, enjoy character work, or want to gain more stage experience.