When Scott Cramton walked into the Shark Tank, he wasn’t just pitching a business, he was fighting to save it. The Murder Mystery Company, his pride and joy, had been hit hard by the pandemic. Scott needed a partner who could help rebuild what he’d spent decades creating.
His goal was to secure $350,000 for a 5% stake in his company and reignite the excitement of live, interactive theater experiences across the country. But what happened next surprised everyone and set the stage for a remarkable comeback.
It was not a happy ending story
The Murder Mystery Company had been a success for over two decades, becoming a leader in private, immersive theater experiences across the country. However, when COVID-19 hit, the company faced its biggest challenge yet.
Public shows came to a halt, and the business had to shift to smaller, private events. This sudden change cut into their growth and reach, forcing Scott to rethink his strategy.
Scott knew the company needed more than just a return to normal. They needed to expand back into public venues and rebuild their brand’s presence.
“We need to be back in public shows, and I can’t waste another decade knocking on doors. I need a shark that can help us,” Scott explained passionately during his pitch. He needed a partner who could offer not just money but the right connections and expertise to take the business to the next level.
“When I knock I’m going through the front door when you guys knock you’re going at the top”
Shark Tank is a New Beginning
Scott’s pitch to the Sharks was more than a business proposal. It was a personal story of determination. He demonstrated a live murder mystery experience, drawing the Sharks into the excitement of his unique interactive theater.
He also opened up about his own personal journey, sharing how he overcame a cleft palate, which required multiple surgeries and years of speech therapy.
“The fact that I’m up here pitching this is an absolute miracle,” Scott said, showing his deep commitment and passion.
“I was born with a very severe cleft palate uh I did about seven surgeries on it and did about 20 years of speech now immersive theater is about the empowerment of participating people leave feeling special that’s what we do”
His pitch was backed by solid numbers. The Murder Mystery Company offered private shows ranging from $499 to $2,000, and larger events that could cost between $5,000 and $10,000.
Each show was an immersive experience lasting around two hours, sometimes extending to two and a half hours for dinner settings. Scott’s goal was clear. He wanted to bring these engaging experiences to a much larger audience.
Partnering with Jason Blum
Among the Sharks, Jason Blum, a Hollywood producer known for his hit horror films, saw something special in Scott’s company. He believed there was a strong crossover between fans of horror movies and those who enjoy immersive theater.
“Your business is amazing. I think I could be a great strategic partner for you,” Jason said confidently. He offered $350,000, but for a 10% stake in the company instead of the 5% Scott had proposed.
Scott hesitated, thinking about a counteroffer. But Mark Cuban quickly offered advice. “In the Shark Tank, there are two types of pain… The second pain is when you walk away over a little bit of equity. You feel that pain not for just a little bit but for the rest of your life,” Mark warned.
Understanding the value of Jason’s experience and connections, Scott agreed to the deal. He even joked about doing a “happy dance” before sealing the partnership with Jason. This decision would soon prove to be a pivotal moment for The Murder Mystery Company.
After Shark Tank was Amazing
The partnership with Jason Blum brought immediate benefits. Within months, The Murder Mystery Company began working on opening ticketed shows across the United States.
Jason expressed his excitement, saying, “Scott Cramton has built up a tremendous business in The Murder Mystery Company and American Immersion Theater. His dedication to bringing guests not just a show but a bespoke, thrilling narrative is an exciting concept to our ambition in immersive experiences of all kinds.”
Scott was just as enthusiastic. “All of American Immersion Theater could not be more thrilled to team with Blumhouse! It’s a dream come true to be able to work together to change the landscape of Immersive Experiences. My hope is that we can galvanize people’s interest in immersive experiences on a global scale,” he shared.
The results were impressive and fast. According to Shelby Stremus, COO of The Murder Mystery Company, the business expanded rapidly.
“Scott signed a deal with Jason Blum for 5% of The Murder Mystery Co. From the start, Jason and Scott began working on opening ticketed shows in the United States. The Murder Mystery Co. has now opened 25 venues across the nation and sold out over 30 shows.”
Future of Immersive Entertainment
The partnership with Jason Blum didn’t just save The Murder Mystery Company. It helped the business evolve and expand in exciting new ways. By opening new venues and selling out shows, the company quickly became a leader in immersive entertainment.
Their story shows the power of resilience, the importance of the right partnerships, and the willingness to adapt and embrace new opportunities.
Featured Image Credit @The Murder Mystery Company