An Evening of Intrigue

The Belvidere Mansion will host a Prohibition Party play written by Mark Ogle on April 15 and 16.

Prohibition was the legal prevention of the manufacture, sale and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States and lasted from 1920 to 1933. Although the temperance movement, which promoted moderation or complete abstinence in the use of liquor, was widely supported and succeeded in bringing about this legislation, millions of Americans were willing to drink liquor illegally, giving rise to  bootlegging (the illegal production and sale of liquor) and speakeasies (illegal, secretive drinking establishments), both of which were capitalized upon by organized crime.
On April 15 and 16, the Belvidere Mansion will transport guests back to this exciting era of wild shenanigans at “An Evening of Intrigue: Prohibition Party.” The interactive play, written by Mark Ogle and presented by Dan Huey and Jessica Ammons, will feature “a vaudeville theme,” according to Elise Gabriel, vice president of the Rogers County Historical Society. “Everyone is encouraged to dress up and come out for a fun evening of intrigue and a delicious dinner. One thing that will be different from previous murder mystery dinner theater events is that instead of tables spread throughout the ballroom, chairs will be arranged around the perimeter of the room, and all of the action will be going on in the center of the ballroom. ”
Ammons is an Emmy award winner for her contribution on a documentary for public television, and Ogle has written more than 30 plays, which have been produced in several countries and translated into multiple languages. Dan Huey has both acted in and directed several previous Ogle plays.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner begins at 6 and the play begins shortly after. The evening’s menu includes prime rib, sides, dessert and complimentary wine. Tickets for the dinner and play are $50 and tend to sell out at each event, so make your reservations early. Call Patrick Deaver at (918) 688-0651 to reserve your tickets.
All proceeds from this fundraiser will go toward the restoration and preservation of the Belvidere Mansion, as well as other Rogers County Historical Society projects. The RCHS also supports the Totem Pole Park.    
Don’t wait until the Prohibition Party, however, to check out this historical mansion. The tea room is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You’ll find salads, sandwiches, soups and seasonal specials, as well as desserts and specialty teas on the menu. You can also take a tour or shop in the gift shop from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., where you’ll find competitively-priced merchandise from over 50 different vendors, as well as unique hand-picked vintage and antique items. The Belvidere also provides rentals for private parties, including weddings, receptions, bridal and baby showers, family reunions and special event destinations.