Murder Mystery Improv Actor

When the case is fictional but the performance is real, Diane delivers in murder mystery theater.

When Diane Birnholz isn’t analyzing real-life crimes, she’s taking center stage to create fictional ones. As a performer with The Dinner Detective, Keith & Margo’s Murder Mystery, and ClueDunnit?!, Diane blends her legal expertise and storytelling skills to entertain and engage with live audiences in interactive murder mystery dinner theater and full weekend experiences all across New England, and beyond.

A former federal prosecutor and current UCLA Law lecturer, Diane brings authenticity to the role of murder investigator, victim, or suspect. Drawing on classic improv training and the acting technique of emotional memory—which encourages performers to draw on real-life experiences to inform their characters—Diane leverages her courtroom and public speaking background with her exuberant physical comedic abilities to deliver roles that feel believable, relatable, and fully alive, whether she's embracing her part as a former prom queen with a dark secret, or a commercial real estate agent, or a bartender/lawyer wannabe, or a youth pastor, or a fist-fighting cheerleading coach, or even as a friendly yet increasingly unhinged murderess... Her deep knowledge of criminal law and natural improvisational instincts allow her to bond with her fellow cast members in leading audiences through complex whodunits with wit, timing, and theatrical flair. At the end of a performance, she's often asked questions like, "You mean you're not really a yoga instructor? But I believed you!"

Diane’s work in live mystery theater has also earned her recognition in the entertainment industry, and she holds credits on her IMDb page for her acting and legal consulting contributions (along with her game show appearances). Whether she’s solving a murder—or committing one (theatrically, of course)—Diane keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

If you’re seeking a skilled actor who can deliver believable legal drama, improv mastery, and audience engagement, Diane is available for live performances, corporate events, private parties, and scripted productions.