Unleash the mystery. Live the story.
The Dawson family has just settled into their new home at 614 Scarlet Court, and to make a splash in their cozy neighborhood, they’re throwing a block party. Leading the charge is Isabella Dawson—a seasoned party host who has already earned the unofficial title of resident gossip queen after just two months in the small town of Shady Oaks. Despite the chatter, neighbors are looking forward to a night of food, fun, and friendly faces… or so it seems.
Since the invitations hit mailboxes, whispers of blackmail, betrayal, and simmering revenge have begun to stir beneath Shady Oaks’ picturesque surface. The air is thick with tension, and not just from the humidity.
Still, Isabella insists on keeping things cheerful—promising dazzling conversation, gourmet bites, and party games designed to charm even the grumpiest guests. But with secrets bubbling just below the surface, who knows what the night will bring?
Your invitation has arrived, and you’re planning to attend.
This is where your story begins.
Guest List
ISABELLA DAWSON
Homemaker
A moody homemaker and wife of Ben Dawson, Isabella is a recent transplant to the tiny town of Shady Oaks. It didn’t take long for her to gain a reputation as the local gossip. Thanks to her unpredictable mood swings, most folks steer clear—but her gorgeous home is the place to host a party, whether the neighbors like her or not.
Isabella insists on calling her event a block party, even though she's already said that she doesn't want anyone wandering to other homes in the neighborhood. However, she does request that all neighbors decorate the exterior of their homes to make it more festive for everyone's walk to the Dawson home at 614 Scarlet Court.
Costume suggestions: Trendy attire. You can opt for a 50s housewife look, a designer-ish cocktail dress, or any trendy party attire.
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SADIE DAWSON
High School Student
Sadie is the brainy high school senior who recently moved to Shady Oaks with her parents, Isabella and Ben. Though she attends school in nearby Deadwood City, she’s already earned a reputation for being loyal, dependable, and razor-sharp. Unless her quirky behaviors throw you off, she’s the kind of friend you’d love to have. So what if she maintains unsettlingly intense eye contact? Or occasionally slips into ghost-story narrator mode mid-sentence? That’s just Sadie being Sadie. Totally normal… right? No? Oh. Well, carry on.
Sadie isn't too thrilled about her mother being labeled the neighborhood gossip after only living in Shady Oaks for two months, but she's used to Isabella being in everyone's business.
Costume suggestions: Very trendy and young-looking attire.
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BEN DAWSON
Pharmaceutical Chemist
The undisputed king of one-uppers, Ben has a knack for turning your story into his epic. Skydived? He’s done it twice. New grill? Ben’s was imported from Japan. Since relocating to Shady Oaks, Ben landed a gig as a Senior Formulations Chemist at Bonlin Pharmaceuticals. Too bad he’s also quickly become the town’s most exhausting conversationalist.
Ben got a smoking deal on his new home at 614 Scarlet Court, but he did have to use his life savings for the down payment. He has everything riding on his new job and their new lives in Shady Oaks working out.
Costume suggestions: Lab jacket, glasses. Optional to have scientific items (i.e., test tubes, beakers, etc.) as props.
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MAYOR PAULI A. TISHON
Mayor of Shady Oaks
The mayor of Shady Oaks has two sides: one charming and supportive, the other… not so much. Pauli will roll out the red carpet if you’re useful—but cross the line, and the claws come out. Town hall staff have learned to read the mayor’s mood from a mile away…and to run if a storm is brewing.
Many townsfolk say that the mayor won't run again in the May election, but if that's true - who will take Pauli's place?
It is rumored that Mayor Pauli accepts bribes for favors and has been doing so for years. Maybe this is all finally catching up to him?
Costume suggestions: Formal business attire - semi-trendy business suit of a playful color/accessories.
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ROBBY CHARLES
Retired Candy Shop Owner
Robby may be retired, but a legacy lives on. Robby’s the founder of the world-famous Charles Chocolates, a company that put Shady Oaks on the map before relocating its headquarters to NYC eight years ago. These days, Robby keeps a low profile, primarily because of the belief that the government is watching. But really… what would the feds want with a retired chocolatier?
If you want to catch up on the latest conspiracy theories, you should ask Robby to lunch. You'll get an earful! Robby always says that today's conspiracy theories are tomorrow's truths.
Costume suggestions: Retiree attire is very casual. A gray or white wig and chocolates are optional props. You can also go full Willy Wonka-inspired.
MARGO PRESLEY
Manager, Deadwood Lake Marina
Don’t let the gothic wardrobe and mysterious vibes fool you—Margo is one of the kindest souls you’ll ever meet. She’s the manager of the Deadwood Lake Marina, and sure, she looks like she might hex your boat, but she’s more likely to help you dock it and offer a warm smile… after a slightly eerie pause.
Margo has been dating one of the nicest men in town, but he's also perceived by most as a bit of a flirt. This bothers Margo, but she'd never want anyone to think she is the jealous type.
Costume suggestions: Gothic, almost vampire-looking attire. Black lipstick and black nail polish are optional accessories.
LIAM WILLIAMS
District Attorney of Shady Oaks
As the hard-nosed district attorney of Shady Oaks, Liam has power, influence, and secrets. Lots of secrets. Despite owning one of the few mansions in town, no one has ever been inside. The townsfolk can’t help but speculate: what’s Liam hiding behind those pristine, always-locked doors?
Liam was dating a local woman for a while, but recently, they have ended things. Nobody knows how they broke up, or why.
Costume suggestions: Trendy business attire - a business suit with a colorful twist and accessories.
NIGEL SAGE
Junior Chemist
Once the golden boy of every sport in high school, Nigel’s dreams were crushed by an accident that ended his athletic run. Now he’s traded varsity letters for lab coats, working as a junior chemist at Bonlin Pharmaceuticals under his powerful father, the CEO. Nigel’s shady past as a notorious high school tyrant still haunts him. Unfortunately, time hasn’t softened his image.
There are rumors that Nigel is on the fast track to be promoted to a senior scientist position as soon as he can get all the lab's glassware names straight, pronounce spectrophotometer correctly, and learn how to use a centrifuge properly.
Costume suggestions: Trendy business attire with a lab jacket. A VIP pin/brooch/name tag is a bonus.
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OFFICER NELSON
Police Officer, Shady Oaks
Crabby, introverted, and perpetually scowling, Officer Nelson seems like the last person you'd trust to protect and serve. But don’t let the attitude fool you—this cop is one of the most decorated on the force. Either this officer's intimidation tactics are award-worthy, or the whole department’s afraid to say otherwise.
Officer Nelson and Quentin Maddox have been buddied up lately. Who would have thought that the creepiest guy in town and the meanest police officer would become good friends?
Costume suggestions: Police uniform. A toy gun and a badge are optional props.
J.R. SAGE
C.E.O., Bonlin Pharmaceuticals
If you looked up narcissism in the dictionary, you would find J.R. Sage’s picture plastered by the description. He’s Nigel Sage’s father and the self-loving CEO of the only industry in town – Bonlin Pharmaceuticals. Most everyone in town either works for the company or has a family member who does, so it's safe to assume that J.R. controls the town of Shady Oaks.
However, there are a couple of people in town who believe they control J.R. - or at least are immune to his influence. It's only a matter of time before they start bickering like caffeinated squirrels.
Costume suggestions: Formal business attire- expensive looking business suit. Have money (fake) sticking out of your pockets as if you just have so much, you lose track.
PEPPER CRENSHAW
English Teacher
This globe-trotting English teacher has seen the world—and won’t let you forget it. Pepper is a thrill-seeking adventurer turned Deadwood High hardliner. While her lush garden and travel stories are legendary, her classroom is run like a military operation. Students: come prepared… or face the consequences.
Pepper is now rolling in dough thanks to her mysteriously departed husband — who, let’s just say, left this world under questionable circumstances. She absolutely dotes on her darling niece Addison Shade and has already declared that one day, her mountain of money will be Addison’s. Unless, of course, someone else gets to her first.
Costume suggestions: A conservative and formal, very expensive-looking gown, flashy costume jewelry, and a tightly curled, red wig as an optional accessory.
EARLINE CRENSHAW
Owner, Shady Oaks Mart
Don’t be fooled by the widow’s weeds—Earline is a sly, compulsive fibber who runs Shady Oaks Mart with a sweet smile and a stacked deck. Whether it’s a board game or a business deal, she’s never met a truth she couldn’t twist.
Oh, and for the record? It’s pronounced ear-line—rhymes with deer crime. Mispronounce it, and you’ll hear about it. Repeatedly.
Earline, a fellow widow like her sister Pepper, isn’t nearly as generous when it comes to their darling niece. While Pepper’s busy writing Addison into her will, Earline’s rolling her eyes. She’s convinced Addison’s only sweet on Pepper because she’s practically made of money—and Earline’s not falling for the “syrup and sparkle” act.
Costume suggestions: An elderly woman wearing thick glasses. A tightly curled white wig is an optional accessory. Throw a couple of sponge rollers in there that you forgot to take out.
ADDISON SHADE
Interior Designer
A sharp-eyed interior designer with a flair for the dramatic, Addison is known for her meticulous approach and low tolerance for nonsense. She’s styled most of the homes in Shady Oaks, and rumor has it a reality show could be in her future…despite whispers that her designs might not be all that.
Addison was born and brewed right here in Shady Oaks. The furthest she ever made it was a six-month condo stint in neighboring Deadwood City—until reality (and rent) hit hard. She came flying back like a broke boomerang, with nothing but debt and drama in her wake.
Addison's two aunts live in town - Pepper and Earline Crenshaw.
Addison dated a local attorney for a while, but things didn't quite work out and she dropped him like a hot potato.
Costume suggestions: Paint-splattered overalls or other interior design/carpentry attire. Optional to have carpentry tools as props.
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PAT COURIC
Reporter, CBC News
Pat is the ever-hustling investigative reporter for CBC Television—always chasing the next big scoop, sometimes before it even happens. With a flair for drama and a crew of CBC staff in tow, Pat is a walking headline searching for the next town scandal.
Pat is dying to either take over the nightly news anchor position in the CBC TV Studio, or be able to apply to work at the bigger and better television station in Deadwood City, RBC TV. But first - Pat needs an exciting story to go viral, or this will never happen.
Costume suggestions: Formal conservative business attire as if you want to be camera ready to go live at any moment. An optional microphone and notepad as props.
TANYA CLAUS
Owner, Shady Oaks Boutique
Part fashionista, part pop diva-in-training, Tanya runs the Shady Oaks Boutique by day and sings her heart out at the Lakefront Pub by night. She’s bubbly, ambitious, and convinced she’s destined for stardom. Until then, she’s the town’s unofficial peacemaker… in five-inch heels and full glam.
Tanya is super competitive and tries to hog the open mic at the pub's karaoke night. She's also been trying to get hired on a regular basis at the more upscale club next door, the Lakefront Lounge. However, there are 1-2 local pop-star wannabes that stand in her way.
Costume suggestions: Ultra-trendy and fashionable attire. Wear a bunch of accessories - over-the-top statement pieces, oversized glasses, etc.
DAKOTA DRUMLEY
Chef, Shady Oaks Diner
Rude, rowdy, and unapologetically brash, Dakota is an infamous chef at the Shady Oaks Diner—and the town’s most shameless party crasher. In fact, she was invited to the Dawsons’ block party to avoid another awkward, uninvited entrance.
Over the years, Dakota’s built quite the enemies list in Shady Oaks—some well-earned, others just unlucky. Now she’s eyeing a fresh start in Deadwood City. It’s not far, but it’s far enough that her past won’t be breathing down her neck in the grocery line… or ramming her ankles with a shopping cart. Frankly, this town’s full of ankle-rammers.
Costume suggestions: Chef’s uniform. Optional to have a toy chef’s knife as a prop.
KENDALL KENNEDY
Librarian, Shady Oaks Library
Kendall is the reclusive librarian with serious anger issues and an ironclad boundary for personal space. Kendall’s germophobia is no joke. Judgmental to a fault, Kendall doesn’t mince words or welcome chitchat in library aisles.
Rumor has it Kendall’s gotten a little too cozy with some—how shall we say—passionate animal rights groups. Recently, Shady Oaks has been hit with mysterious pranks and protests targeting anyone who owns a pet, grills a steak, or dares to wear leather. Now, half the town’s on edge... and the rest are pretending to be vegan until the heat dies down.
Costume suggestions: Conservative librarian attire. Books are optional props. Latex gloves and a face shield are optional props.
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QUENTIN MADDOX
Convenience Store Clerk
Quentin is an unsettling clerk at Shady Oaks Mart—the only convenience store in town, unfortunately for everyone. With his eerie whistling and long, unblinking stares, chatting with him is less "small talk" and more of a psychological endurance test. Still, you’ll see him whether you want to or not.
He works for Earline Crenshaw, who remains blissfully unaware that his unsettling vibe is driving customers to the next town over for milk and batteries. Meanwhile, rumor has it Quentin Maddox is besties with Officer Nelson—who, let’s be honest, seems to run the police department more than the actual acting chief.
Costume suggestions: Scraggly, tattered white t-shirt. Hair unkempt, thin beard, and pointed tuft at the chin.
BASIL CROSS
Restaurant Manager
Hailing from the bustling Deadwood City (population 36,000 and counting), Basil is the self-important manager of a trendy downtown restaurant. He’s always sweating, puffing on a Sherlock Holmes-style pipe, and dodging questions about his time living at 614 Scarlet Ct. with his sister’s family. Something happened there—but he’s not talking about it.
Basil has plenty of pals scattered across tiny Shady Oaks and still juggles lunch dates like a socialite with a coupon book. He managed to charm his way onto Isabella’s block party guest list—and you can bet he’ll show up with bells on, probably literally.
Costume suggestions: Casual attire. A Sherlock Holmes-style pipe, a plastic baggie with water, and a sponge are optional props to keep you 'sweaty.’
GAVEN PHOENIX
Manager, Shady Oaks Recreation Center
Gaven is the freshly graduated jock-turned-recreation center manager with biceps as big as his ego. He’s most often seen lifting weights or loitering with Quentin Maddox. Known for being a high school bully, he insists he’s matured… but let’s just say the jury’s still out.
Gaven’s also tight with Officer Nelson—the cop who basically runs the police department while the acting chief plays desk jockey. What can we say? Ducks flock with ducks… especially the shady ones.
Costume suggestions: Athletic attire &/or any tight clothing to display your real or fake muscles. Mirrored aviator sunglasses are an optional prop.
CBC NEWS CREW
Pat Couric is always on top of the latest story—and sometimes before the story happens! Pat’s an ambitious investigative reporter for the CBC television station will stop at nothing to be the first to get the scoop. Pat is rarely seen without a troupe of highly professional colleagues from CBC News who are always prepared to document the story for Pat.
Costume suggestions: Film production crew costume (black shirt, black pants, clapboard, clipboard, walkie-talkies, etc.)
SHADY OAKS POLICE OFFICER
Officer Nelson is one of Shady Oaks’ most decorated cops—always flanked by a loyal swarm of fellow officers and admirers. Intimidating and commanding, Nelson never has to raise a voice—people just do what they're told. But let’s be honest… maybe that crowd sticks close not out of loyalty, but out of fear they’ll be next on the radar if they drift too far.
Costume suggestions: Police uniform. Toy gun and badge as optional props.
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AGATHA NONLEY
Tennis Instructor
Agatha Nonley is the notoriously loud tennis instructor at the Shady Oaks Recreation Center. She says exactly what she thinks with zero filter, regardless of who’s listening. Agatha is a long-time tennis pro with zero patience for beginners and makes that painfully clear. Though mostly amicable, she has a dangerously short fuse, so avoid anything that might spark a verbal volley.
Rumor has it Agatha nearly got the boot after just one tennis lesson with a local. Did she lose her cool? Oh, almost definitely. It’s kind of her signature move.
Costume suggestions: Tennis visor, athletic top, pleated skirt or shorts, tennis racket as a prop.
FRIEDA FRIEDHELM
Owner, Shady Oaks Playhouse Theater
Originally from Bundenbach, Germany, Frieda Friedhelm was once a struggling papergirl in Shady Oaks. After years of saving, she opened her own business, and the risk paid off. Now the ruthless owner of the Shady Oaks Playhouse Theater, Frieda is a powerhouse. Cross her once and you’ll learn she stops at nothing to get what she wants.
However, the last production at her playhouse, The Enchanted Gnome, had to shut down after only two weeks. Given the amount of effort that goes into a production - something had to have been terribly wrong for this to happen.
Costume suggestions: German dirndl (traditional German dress). Dramatic eye makeup and any script in hand.
MONIQUE SANCHEZ
Criminal Defense Attorney
The phrase: “Liar, liar, pants on fire” might as well have been coined for Monique Sanchez. A loud, shameless, and cunning criminal defense attorney, Monique is the one you want in your corner—especially if you're guilty. She makes ambulance chasers look like monks and has never met a courtroom she couldn’t dominate with sheer audacity.
Monique and Quentin Maddox have been thick as thieves ever since she got his criminal charges dropped without breaking a sweat. Maybe it’s because she charged him double and he didn’t flinch. Or maybe she knows he’ll be back in court before the ink on the last verdict dries. Yeah… probably.
Costume suggestions: Sharp suit or power blazer, bold jewelry, briefcase, or legal pad.
MOONBEAM RAINBOWS
Owner, The Greenery
Moonbeam Rainbows is the bubbly and beloved owner of The Greenery, an eco-conscious store that caters to all things environmentally friendly. Known for her sunny disposition and willingness to bend over backward for others, Moonbeam is selfless to a fault—and well-loved by the community she serves.
Moonbeam is one of the nicest people in town but doesn't pause before lecturing you about the environment and Mother Earth.
Costume suggestions: Earth-tone flowy clothes, flower crown or bandana, reusable bag, hemp, or wooden accessories.
PADMA DEEPIKA
Movie Rental Clerk
Padma Deepika is the no-nonsense movie rental clerk at Busterblock’s Movie Store. A dedicated worker with a sharp tongue, Padma knows the days of DVD rentals are fading fast—but she holds out hope for a retro cinematic comeback. Until then, she takes pride in running the counter with precision and purpose.
Padma lives in constant fear of her terrifying boss and will do just about anything to keep him happy—especially when it comes to hunting down overdue fees. Unfortunately, most folks in Shady Oaks are either broke, stubborn, or just plain cheap.
Somehow, the Shady Oaks Busterblock’s is the last one standing, despite streaming services wiping out every other location on the planet. Padma can’t figure out how they’re still afloat—unless five VHS-loving seniors are secretly funding the entire operation. Honestly, she wouldn’t be surprised if they were laundering money through the Be Kind Rewind section.
Costume suggestions: Retro logo T-shirt or polo, name tag, jeans, stack of DVDs or VHS tapes as props.
PAUL PARATSY
Tabloid ReporterPaul Paratsy is the tenacious tabloid reporter dubbed “The King of the Gutter Press” by his colleagues. No story is too wild, no source too shady—Paul always gets his scoop. With his trusty camera crew and questionable ethics, he’s known for landing exclusive interviews and scandalous photos no one else dares chase.
Paul lives in Shady Oaks, but works for Starry Magazine, which is headquartered in Hollywood. However, Shady Oaks is a central location for traveling to many celebrity hotspots. Paul has never scooped a good story in his hometown. Will Isabella Dawson's party be the first?
Costume suggestions: Trench coat or rumpled blazer, camera around neck, notepad, press badge.
HUNTER DEERMAN
Big Game Hunter
By day, Hunter Deerman is a bold, bison-hunting outdoorsman. By night, he transforms into a sensitive poet, reciting heartfelt verses at the Shady Oaks Poetry Club. Equal parts rugged and romantic, Hunter surprises most people with his impeccable manners and unexpected charm.
While others bring flowers, Hunter brings sonnets — handwritten and occasionally bloodstained. He dreams of becoming a world-famous big game hunter, or maybe an owner of a sanctuary zoo with a reality television deal. Hunter never misses his weekly poetry readings... or tea with his mom.
Costume suggestions: Camo shirt or flannel, boots, poetry notebook in pocket, deer antler cap optional.
MARS BRUNO
Lounge Performer, Lakefront Lounge
Mars Bruno is a talented guitarist and songwriter with a heart as big as his chord progressions. If you ever need a pick-me-up, Mars is the one to call — equal parts emotional support and musical genius. Loyal, thoughtful, and endlessly resourceful, he's the go-to guy for solving problems and lifting spirits.
Mars is growing tired of performing locally at the Lakefront Lounge, and aspires to be an international sensation pop artist one day. Many of the townsfolk think this will be an easy path for Mars, given his talent.
Costume suggestions: Band tee, skinny jeans, layered necklaces or bracelets, toy guitar, or lyrics notebook.
MACE FREELY
Town Lunatic
Mace Freely is the resident lunatic of Shady Oaks—and proudly so. It’s like he emerged from a thirty-year cave with no concept of human interaction. Conversations with Mace are famously awkward, featuring long silences, piercing stares, and utterly bizarre observations. Some swear the room drops a few degrees when he walks in.
Mace also has made claims that he is an intergalactic alien. The way things are going nowadays, people are starting to believe this might be true.
Some say that Mace wasn't always like he is today, and that he was entirely normal. Something must have happened.
Costume suggestions: Go wild and choose a straitjacket look (obviously unbuckled), a hospital gown, pajamas, or a wacky chicken costume.
HUGH HEFFLE
Retired Real Estate Magnate
Hugh Heffle is a high-strung, retired real estate mogul whose mood swings could qualify as natural disasters. One minute he’s your fishing buddy; the next, he’s yelling about how you abandoned him yesterday (you didn’t). Most folks in Shady Oaks approach Hugh with caution—and an escape plan.
Hugh owns many luxury homes in vacation hotspots around the globe. For this reason, the townsfolk of Shady Oaks often butter him up for discounts on a week or two stay at one of his properties.
Costume suggestions: Formal business attire that shows your wealth and success.
STARRY MAGAZINE TABLOID CREW
Paul Paratsy is the relentless king of the gutter press—Shady Oaks’ very own tabloid tornado. Always flanked by his equally scrappy crew, Paul has a sixth sense for scandal and a lens that never blinks. If there’s an impossible scoop to chase, you can bet they’ll snag the photo, the quote, and maybe even the voicemail. There’s nothing these camera-wielding chaos agents won’t do to get the story—ethics optional! They all live in Shady Oaks, but travel to celebrity hotspots to spy on A-listers. They would love to finally get a Shady Oaks scoop to go viral.
Costume suggestions: Film production attire. Camera as an optional prop.
