Atlanta welcomes an evening made to surprise, unsettle, and spark your imagination. Once Upon a Crime is an interactive detective theater show that delves into the dark side of fairy tales—born from the idea that “happily ever after” was a lie to hide a crime. The audience becomes the jury as characters from the tale of Little Red Riding Hood reveal their versions of the truth to the detective. A familiar story reimagined as a haunting exploration of innocence, guilt, and justice—blending the intrigue of true crime with the nostalgia of childhood tales.
16 May 2026 18:00
What is Once Upon a Crime?
Once Upon a Crime is a 60‑minute retelling—and unraveling—of Little Red Riding Hood, recast as a noir‑style detective story. The show entails a clever detective digging into the tale’s darker truths, revealing that our beloved characters may not be as innocent as they seem—earning the show its 18+ rating. As a series of tense interrogations unfolds, the audience becomes the jury, deciding guilt or innocence in the end. Darkly funny and full of intrigue, it feels like stepping into a vintage detective film.
Little Red Riding Hood: Which story do you know?
First told by Charles Perrault in 1697, Little Red Riding Hood was a grim warning about manipulation and danger, ending without rescue or redemption. The Brothers Grimm later softened the tale in 1812, giving Red a savior and a moral lesson. Once Upon a Crime blends both versions, weaving their light and shadow into a modern true‑crime twist that reminds audiences that even in a kingdom far, far away, deceit and darkness still lurk beneath the surface.
In this true crime story, you’re not just an observer—you’re part of the investigation. This interactive mystery pulls you deeper into every twist and motive, with evidence revealed on screen and a live voting experience deciding the final verdict. Perfect for groups, dates, or fans of a clever detective story, it’s a social investigation that keeps you guessing—and talking about it—long after the case is closed.
16 May 2026 18:00
Hosted at Performing Arts Studio, Once Upon a Crime runs on selected dates only, with limited capacity. It’s your turn to step into the story and decide whether the fairy tale you grew up with is far darker than it seemed. Is your favorite character innocent—or guilty? You’re about to find out.
Once Upon a Crime: An Immersive Theater Investigation Experience
16 May 2026 18:00