Star of CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation
Wilton’s Music Hall, Friday 4 July — followed by a UK tour
Following two sold-out performances at Wilton’s Music Hall last year, the award-winning CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation returns this July with its unique blend of mystery, mischief, and made-up madness. We caught up with performer Sarah Kempton — actor, audiobook narrator, and improviser — ahead of the show’s one-night-only return to Wilton’s and a nationwide tour.
What can audiences expect from CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation?
Sarah:
You, the audience, tell us the name of the victim, their occupation, and the murder weapon. We then meet the suspects in the wake of the murder — and no one, not even us, knows who the killer is.
At the end, the audience decides who committed the crime. We’ve had some fantastic suggestions in the past — it’s always my favourite part to see what the audience comes up with, so surprise us!
The troupe is in its 11th year — what keeps the show feeling fresh?
Sarah:
We’re always asking how the show can be better. It’s incredibly collaborative, and every person who’s been part of the team has helped it evolve.
It’s changed a lot over the years — and will keep changing. That constant growth keeps it exciting for us and fresh for the audience.
How do you prepare for a show where nothing is scripted — especially a murder mystery?
Sarah:
Even though we never know what’s going to happen, it’s all about trust and teamwork. There’s a lot of technique behind improv — we train regularly to keep our skills sharp and our team bond strong.
It’s a bit like sport in that way — you never know what’ll happen during the match, but you’ve trained together to be ready for anything.
Funniest moment on stage so far?
Sarah:
That would be last year in Edinburgh… We noticed a bit of a kerfuffle a few rows back, so we paused to check everyone was okay — and it turned out a gentleman had projectile vomited over three rows of the audience. Three!
They were covered. The rows had to be closed off and cleaned for the rest of the day. Our show was at 15:10, so he’d clearly had a great morning…
You’re returning to Wilton’s Music Hall. What’s special about that venue?
Sarah:
So excited to be back! Wilton’s was built for Music Hall acts — all about connecting and communicating with the audience — which is exactly what improv is.
It works beautifully with our show. The venue feels like it becomes part of the team.
As you hit the road for the UK tour, what are you most looking forward to?
Sarah:
I’m proud that our audiences are often half-and-half — people who’ve seen improv and people who haven’t. When we tour, it’s sometimes up to 70% who’ve never seen it before.
You can feel the fear at the beginning — that uncertainty — melt away into joy and laughter. People can’t believe it’s made up on the spot… but it is. That audience is the only one who’ll ever see that show. There’s a bit of magic in that.
🕵️ CSI: Crime Scene Improvisation
📍 Wilton’s Music Hall, Friday 4 July
🎟️ Tickets and info: wiltons.org.uk
🛣️ Followed by a nationwide tour
