Do you love 1940s dramas and lm [sic] noir? Then mark your calendar! The Maltese Falcon, Casablanca, and other cinematic classics serve as the inspiration for The Black Bird of Death, a sidesplitting mystery-themed reception and dinner to be hosted by the Eastman Museum Council. The evening will start at 6 p.m. with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the museum's Potter Peristyle, where guests will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with an exceedingly curious cast of colorful characters. Dinner will follow in George Eastman's Conservatory in the historic mansion. But be forewarned, your fine dining will be accompanied by—murder! The ensuing performance by the Mystery Company and associated mayhem will include all the hallmarks of a true detective thriller as well as the hilarity of a good comedy. Guests will be asked to help solve the "crime" and identify the murderer. The Black Bird of Death is a well-crafted spoof of hard-boiled detective thrillers and film noir including unlikely romantic attachments. This interactive whodunit will keep everyone guessing and laughing. Period attire from the 1940s or black-and- white cocktail attire of today is encouraged.

[source: George Eastman Museum, 2017-Oct-16]