NILES — After a successful turnout at September’s inaugural murder mystery fundraiser for the Niles Education Foundation, the organization will host a second murder mystery — this time about a 1950s-sock hop that goes awry.

People are invited to bust out their poodle skirts and other 1950s style attire and help to raise money to replace the Niles High School stage. The “Dance with Death” murder mystery will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 10, at the Niles F.O.P.

The event will be performed by the Murder Mystery Co., a renowned performance group based in Grand Rapids. Adults 21 and up are encouraged to attend and help solve the mystery of a sock hop dancer during the comedic Clue-style performance.

Lisa Muñoz, a Niles High School alum and member of the Niles Education Foundation, said the foundation wanted to devise a unique way to raise money that would engage the community. 

“It is tough because there are a lot of organizations out there trying to raise money,” Muñoz said. “This was something that was new and had never really been done around here.”

About 75 people attended September’s murder mystery and helped to raise $1,540, after expenses. 

“We got a lot of great feedback from the other one,” Muñoz said. “I am hoping this time we will catch the ‘fear of missing out’ people.”

Muñoz praised the performance of the Murder Mystery Co., who helped to bring the story to life during September’s murder mystery.

“From the moment we walked in the door, the actors were in character,” Muñoz said. “It was always funny and entertaining.”

She said it was fun to see coworkers and friends take on the characters in the story line, as they tried to determine who among them was the game’s murderer.

Muñoz said the Niles Education Foundation identified the need to replace the high school stage after touring the building following bond construction. The stage has not been replaced since 1956. Niles High School Principal Molly Brawley said the stage floor could cost between $19,000 to $23,000 to replace.

“Have you seen it (the stage)?” Muñoz asked. “It needs to be ripped out and replaced.”

Muñoz encouraged people to support the cause.

“It is a great friends’ nights, girls’ night or great couples’ activity,” Muñoz said.

Tickets cost $50 and can be purchased through the Niles Education Foundation website at nileseducationfoundation.org or by contacting Muñoz at (574) 850-1141. Available tickets are limited so those interested are encouraged to make their purchase as soon as possible.

Those who wish to contribute toward the high school’s stage replacement can donate via the Niles Education Foundation website.