Holmes and Watson return to Cape May

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional sleuth, Sherlock Holmes and his partner Dr. Watson return to Cape May for a suspense-filled weekend during Sherlock Holmes Weekend, Nov. 6-8, sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC).
The master detective is faced with one of his most baffling cases yet, the Case of Mistaken Identity by John K. Alvarez, a new mystery for 2009.
A medical investigation, an inadvertent victim, a case of mistaken identity, a notorious villain, a dark secret, a career policeman, a deep friendship and a daring detective all add up to a story that will have you on the edge of your seat!
Join your fellow “partners in crime” Nov. 6 at 8:30 p.m. at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. Dr. Watson has come to this peaceful, seaside community to attend a symposium. As he reminisces with his friends and colleagues, we learn about his first meeting with the great detective and how this chance encounter became his life’s work.
Watch the mystery unfold and start to formulate your theories along with Holmes and Watson. A cash bar will be available. Registration will begin at 7 p.m. and doors open for seating at 8 p.m.
Continue hunting for evidence on the Search for Clues Tour Nov. 7. From 1 to 3 p.m., participants will uncover clues and complete answer sheets on a self-guided tour through a selection of Victorian properties.
Along the way, you may encounter Holmes and Watson, and a suspicious character or two. Complete your answer sheet for your chance to be the grand prizewinner! Anyone completing an answer sheet is eligible to win and you do not have to be present to win.
The game continues Nov. 7 at 3:30 p.m. at the Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. What about this case intrigues Holmes? Is it the twists and turns or the secrets he uncovers during the investigation? Why was the victim chosen and who committed the crime? How are you faring in your search? Is it really elementary? Have you matched wits with the celebrated detective or are you a clueless wonder? Compare notes as Holmes works his way through the mystery.
On Sunday, at 12:30 p.m., Holmes unlocks the mystery! Enjoy a hearty brunch at the Inn of Cape May with Mr. Holmes, Dr. Watson and the full cast of characters. Is the villain among us still? Did you discover the clues and choose well? Once the mystery is solved, the winners will be announced, and prizes awarded in various categories.
The optional activity that weekend is the East Lynne Theater Company’s performance of “Sherlock Holmes’ Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle” Nov. 6-7 at the First Presbyterian Church, Decatur and Hughes sts.
Step back in time, as East Lynne Theater Company presents this tale in the style of a vintage radio broadcast, complete with live sound effects and commercials, just like Sherlock Holmes’ radio series on NBC that premiered on Oct. 20, 1930.
Holmes and Watson try to discover how a precious blue stone came to be in a goose on Christmas Eve. General admission is $23 and admission for full-time students is $13.
Full weekend packages are available for Sherlock Holmes Weekend at $180 per couple or $95 per person (packages do not include accommodations or optional events). The Search for Clues Tour is part of the full package or can be purchased separately for $15 per person.
Call 609-884-5404 or 800-275-4278, ext. 162 for more information.