The Oxymorons improv troupe recently returned to campus for an espionage-tinged Murder Mystery Dinner in the Mountain Laurel Room of Penn College’s Thompson Professional Development Center. “Leap of Fate,” a fittingly named Student Engagement event held on February’s quadrennial extra day, involved a cadre of cutthroat spies clawing to the pinnacle of their profession. Chef Michael J. Ditchfield and three of his culinary arts technology students (Jacob G. Clarke, of Wilmington, Delaware; Keowa M. Clemens, of York; and Kaitlyn M. June, of Muncy) prepared this year’s winning menu of dishes named for principals in the evening’s shenanigans.

– Photos by Tim Wegman, student photographer

A table, set for sleuthing

A cast of true characters

The evening’s appetizer, Pennyworth’s Revenge Toadstool, paired portobello and polenta.

Resourceful actor-comedians work the room.

Villain and Heiress Miranda Kensington’s Shaved Salad

Patrons are amused by a well-timed pratfall.

Moving the narrative along at breakneck pace

N.A. Solle’s Syndicated Jerk Stuffed Chicken entree, prepared by Chef Mike and students

Is that a poker face, open to interpretation, or the unblinking glare of truth?

Everything’s a potential giveaway in such an intimate setting, where facial expressions and body language help tell a twisted tale.

Collecting diners’ guesses on “Whodunit?”

Ginnifer Snapps’ dessert: crumb cheesecake with a sweet potato donut hole and Bananas Foster with crystallized ginger

The audience shows its appreciation at show’s end.