The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Jefferson and Clallam Counties has a once-a-year opportunity for people who enjoy watching suspenseful movies and eating gourmet food.

"Dinner and a Murder," on Saturday, Dec. 6, is an annual event where the audience is involved in solving the crime over dinner. Cast members circulate the room near the end of dinner allowing audience members to question suspects, who always must answer truthfully.

The story takes place on Dec. 6, 1941 – the night before Japan bombs Pearl Harbor. Europe is at war but the U.S. has stayed out of the conflict so far. Port Townsend resembles New York City in the 1930s and 1940s as detective Julius Fox and sidekick Chandler Dash try to uncover the killer of heiress Greta Goode.

Guests are encouraged to dress in attire appropriate to the time period. Tables seat eight and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Advance reservations are recommended. For only $5 per chance, guests can win a table for eight complete with champagne, flowers, chocolates and other surprises, in the center of the drama.

Bob Logue, RSVP manager, describes "Dinner and a Murder" as the organization’s signature event. "It is a murder mystery written for large audience participation as opposed to the small living room versions," he said. "The actors are all drawn from a pool of amateur actors who simply love to be on stage and who also love giving of their time and talents to the cause and mission of RSVP."

But there’s "nothing amateur about their performances," Logue assured.

Last year’s event raised $7,000, falling short of the projected mark. This year, organizers hope to raise $10,000. "Dinner and a Murder" is RSVP’s one and only fundraiser.

One hundred tickets have sold so far. One hundred forty tickets are still available. Proceeds directly benefit RSVP.

"This is our one and only chance to raise funds for the year," Logue said.

Under the umbrella of Olympic Community Action Programs, RSVP helps recruit and match volunteers to nonprofit organizations. More than 900 volunteers are actively involved in RSVP throughout Clallam and Jefferson counties. Volunteers are responsible for tutoring and mentoring children in schools, helping at food banks, donating time to Meals on Wheels, organizing the stacks at libraries and more.

Reserve tickets now for ‘Dinner and a Murder’

The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Jefferson and Clallam Counties presents the third annual "Dinner and a Murder" Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Fort Worden Commons in Port Townsend. Tickets cost $50 per person and include a buffet dinner and dessert. Tickets are available at the door but advance reservations are highly recommended. Tickets can be personally delivered or mailed. Proceeds benefit RSVP, an Olympic Community Action program that helps connect seniors with volunteer opportunities at nonprofit agencies. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Bob Logue at 360-385-2571, ext. 6324.