If you think I am going to break into a old-time musical hall song, you are going to be completely wrong!

In fact, what I am about to share is a new look for a special occasion.

Last weekend was Leslie’s birthday and my wonderful Sister in Law, Angela organised an online zoom murder mystery event as a way of getting together, whilst being apart.

The Champagne Murders

Oh and having a bit of fun too.

The game was based in the 1960’s there were ten characters that needed dishing out.

Now normally I get to choose who I want to be. Being plus size, I have to work with what clothing I own and wouldn’t necessarily be able to get hold of certain suitable items unlike most of the regular sized players.

Therefore as soon as I saw the cast list, I asked to play a very specific person.

‘Champagne’ Charlie Bunsun; a businessman/gangster with ties to gangland crime but has never been convicted of any crimes.

Script and Evidence

The reason I asked for this part was that I already had the perfect pair of trousers, shirt and vintage tie and shoes.

Several months ago I had purchased a pair of pin-striped, high waisted Thelma trousers with braces from Unique Vintage.

Thelma Trousers

These totally remind me of gangster trousers and the only reason I haven’t showcased them already is that they need the legs altering as they are massive on me. To be fair, the waist needs a little bit of altering also, but would work perfectly for the game!

I had purchased the shirt and tie to go with the trousers so that was just perfect.

I was more than happy with my outfit but the perfectionist in me decided to have a bimble on ebay to see if I could get some accessories.

Bad move!

I started looking at top hats, as you do.

What a Titfer!

I mean, who doesn’t need a decent top hat? There must be numerous occasions at which I could wear it, so it would be an investment.

Right?

Especially a silken vintage top hat embossed with ‘With Appointment to H.M The King. Well, it was pretty old at least AND in fantastic condition.

For the King

Even better was the fact that it came with a vintage white silky scarf, black button braces, two bow ties, a shirt collar, cleaning pad for the hat and a pair of white evening dress gloves.

An absolute bargain and perfect for the event.

Gangster Style

We all went our separate ways to get ready and when I came downstairs Theodore was prancing about wanting to join in. I jokingly said he could be Champagne Charlies guard dog to which Les quipped ‘Yes, Champagne Chowlie’

Champagne Chowlie!

Of course we had to give him the top hat to try out!

Eventually it was time for the event to start and we had set up the dining room as the game playing area.

Champagne!

Little Chick had brought her Television down from her bedroom and connected it up to her Macbook so we could have a video call with the rest of the family who are located in two separate places.

All ready to go!

There was a huge buffet spread of French bread, Cheese, home-made sausage rolls and other nibbles, all prepared by Mum.

Brilliant Buffet!

Everyone had their drinks of choice, and there was non-alcoholic wine for me, in place of the Champagne.

Cheers!

The game was cracking fun and everyone had taken a lot of effort with their costumes and characters. There were dodgy accents and some dodgy fashion, but it was all in the spirit of the game.

Almost done

All told, the game took around 2 hours to play and I have to say that it was immensely good fun! I have to admit though, when it came to stating who was the murderer, I didn’t have a single clue that pointed me in any one direction.

Bon Viveur and Entrepreneur

I am glad to say that on this occasion I was NOT the killer. However, I didn’t get the killer right either!

Oh well…

Till next time,

SPSG xxx