Interview with Kurt Allison, co-founder
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: We visited several escape rooms in the Denver area and really enjoyed the experience. We felt that we could make our own that would equal or exceed the quality of the ones that we had visited. So, we built a prototype in a garage and had some of our friends and business associates come and try it. Everyone seemed to get a kick out of the experience so we went ahead and leased some space and opened up our escape room in the middle of December. The first room, Mystic Chambers, has received a lot of great reviews and is usually booked throughout the weekends. The second room, Cabin in the Woods, will be opening in March with all-new puzzles and technology.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We strive to differentiate our business from the other escape rooms by using new electronic technology that other escape rooms have not developed into their scenarios. There are some low-tech puzzles mixed with some new uses of electronic gadgets that surprise even the most experienced escape rooms fans.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: We love to watch people’s reaction when they finally solve a puzzle and have that ah-ha moment and when they are surprised by one of the electronic puzzles that activates and something changing inside the escape room. Our biggest satisfaction comes when the players escape, cheer and high-five each other. Their sense of accomplishment shows us that we provided a great experience.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Since we have only been in business a short time, we are relying on word of mouth to promote our business. The challenge is getting our name out there. Escape rooms are still foreign to a lot of people.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We thought our escape room would mainly appeal to customers in their 20s and 30s. To our surprise, everyone from 8-year-olds to customers in their 70s have played and enjoyed the experience. Everyone loves the thrill of finding a solution to a clue.
Profile
Business: Conundrum Escape Rooms
Address: 9255 W. 58th Ave., Arvada
Hours: 3:30-9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2015
Contact: 720-441-3011
Employees: 3
