Brandalyn Shropshire	- Download MP3-

How about a little murder with dinner?

Technically, the murder in the dinner-theater comedy production of "Who Killed Florence 'Tiny' Jenkins?" at Olivet Kingdom Center on Saturday has already occurred. But even the audience will get into the act of finding out who did it.

The murder-mystery was written by Chattanoogan Brandalyn Shropshire, and she will be one of eight in the cast, which ranges in age from 18 to 58.

"This was a new venture I set out to do," she said. "God just laid it on my heart, and if it works we'll be doing it more than one time."

A hearse, coffin and funeral music set the stage for the play, Shropshire said

The story opens with the funeral of the 750-pound "Tiny" and the introduction of her family and friends, who believe she died from a bone of one of her award-winning chicken dinners in her throat and not from foul play.

Shropshire, as Shrop the Cop, a character she has played elsewhere, will involve the audience in the fun as they enjoy their traditional soul-food dinner by Tuggle's Catering, she said.

"They'll be involved from the time they hit the door," she said.

Shropshire said the whole family can enjoy the play, which she is staging as a Halloween alternative.

Although she has been involved in theater for many years, she has been writing plays for only five years.

"Who Killed Florence 'Tiny' Jenkins?" is Shropshire's first play to be staged.

"It's crazy, it's over-the-top," she said. "It'll be a different experience. I hope everyone will come out and have a good time."

The comedy is directed by Alicia Saunders.

IF YOU GO

* What: "Who Killed Florence 'Tiny' Jenkins?"

* When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday.

* Where: Olivet Kingdom Center, 704 E. M.L. King Blvd.

* Admission: $25 (advance only; no tickets available at the door).

* Phone: 313-7343.