In October 2023, I participated as an actress in a series of live-action role-playing murder mystery games, organized and directed by Jean-Marc Barthélemy as part of his improvisation-based events. These were full-scale, immersive experiences where storytelling, improvisation, and role-play came together to create intense, emotionally engaging evenings.
Each event placed both actors and participants into a high-stakes fictional world where a murder had occurred, and the participants had a role to play in uncovering the truth. Guided by Barthélemy’s artistic direction, the scenarios were rich in detail, allowing for genuine reactions and evolving character dynamics.
I had the opportunity to take on two different roles during these events. In one, I played a young tour guide on her very first day at work, suddenly caught in a chaotic and frightening situation after the murder of her employer. It was a character filled with nervous energy, uncertainty, and the growing realization that nothing was as it seemed.
In another scenario, I portrayed a young mother whose father had been murdered, a role that required deep emotional presence. Navigating grief, confusion, and the search for answers in real time was both challenging and incredibly fulfilling as a performer.
These murder mystery role-play events were more than games — they were interactive stories brought to life through improvisation and collaboration. Being a part of them was an exciting and rewarding experience that pushed me creatively and allowed me to connect deeply with each character I portrayed.
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Pauline Cano - Multidisciplinary artist 