From Mayhem to Masterpiece?: Crafting a 15-Minute Murder Mystery.

The January Lo-Key Low Stakes Showcase beckoned with a seemingly simple self-assigned task: write a 15-minute murder mystery in a the style of a classic BBC radio play – no set, no special lighting – just 4 actors on the stage and some sound effects – Easy, right? As I stared at the blinking cursor on my screen, a cold realization dawned – I had no fucking  idea what I was doing.

The Plot Thickens (Too Much)

Underestimating the complexity of a whodunit was my first mistake. Weaving a web of intrigue, red herrings, and clues while masterfully developing a plot and characters – it’s a delicate dance between writer and mystery. You’re both the architect of the crime and the detective, leading listeners on a thrilling yet concise journey. Fifteen minutes? My initial confidence dissolved faster than a sugar cube in tea.

The Edit Cycle of Doom

The familiar cycle of writing, editing, rewriting, and more editing began. Words flowed, edits slashed, words flowed again – but the script remained a bloated mess. It was clear: cramming this convoluted narrative into 15 minutes was a recipe for disaster.  Defeat loomed.

A Bite-Sized Solution

Then, inspiration struck. Why not break the mold? Screw the 15-minute constraint! Screw Lo-Key’s 15 minute rules ! Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, masters of episodic storytelling, built suspense and captivated audiences with installments.  Could I achieve the same? 

Embrace the Episodes!

With newfound zeal, I tore apart my script, transforming it into four bite-sized episodes. This allowed for tighter character development and cliffhangers that would leave listeners clamoring for more.

The Show Must Go On (In Parts)

Join the case of Murderous Intent (and 3 other rule- abiding 15 minute plays) on the 23rd of March for Episode 2 at the SpeakEasy Theatre. Let’s see if this episodic gamble pays off!

Shows are at 6pm and 8pm and tickets available here https://theboxofficephnompenh.com/whats-on/