The King’s Quest, produced by Ravenchase Adventures in Nashville, is an over-the-top scavenger hunt that will have participants combing downtown Memphis on Saturday looking for treasure.
Usually 50 to 70 people come to the event, according to Ravenchase artistic director Joshua Wolak. “They encounter weird tests and have to solve riddles. There’s some mystery involved, too.”
Participants will follow a “magical-looking” treasure map with poetic hints. Additionally, several actors — playing villains, spies, or even street musicians — will pass along information before contestants reach their final destination.
Despite the realistic feel of the hunt, Wolak says, “It’s not about competing; it’s about having fun. It’s a great excuse to run around for a weekend, and you get to meet new people. You can compete against your family, or you can work together to solve the clues.”
The starting location for the King’s Quest will be revealed in the first clue, so pre-registration is required at www.ravenchase.com. Contestants should find the treasure within two-and-a-half hours.
But this “treasure” — though perfect to mark an enjoyable afternoon — might not satisfy Captain Jack Sparrow. As Wolak explains with a laugh, “The prizes are usually very large tacky objects spray-painted gold.”
The King’s Quest, downtown memphis, Saturday, June 16th, 1 p.m. $20 per person, free for children 8 and younger. www.ravenchase.com.