Surely you joust: Medieval Times seeks knights for new Scottsdale castle

PHOENIX — Think you have the knight stuff?

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament announced auditions this month for Knights of the Realm to perform at its Scottsdale location, which is set to open this summer.

The open casting call for men ages 18 and up was scheduled for Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott Scottsdale Salt River.

Don’t worry if you don’t have horse experience or sword skills.

“About 80 percent of our knights have never ridden before,” Tim Baker, director of stunts, choreography and equestrian programs, said in a press release.

Successful candidates must be available for a three-month training program from March to June at a ranch outside Dallas.

There, fledgling knights will learn skills such as horse care and riding, weaponry, performance/choreography and physical conditioning.

“Anyone with some experience in organized sports or martial arts will learn faster,” Baker said.

“People who know how to listen, and who work as a team, are the ones we want.”

Medieval Times serves four-course meals while performers compete in jousting, sword fighting and other knightly games during a two-hour show.

The Scottsdale castle will be the company’s 10th U.S. location and first in Arizona.

Construction began on Via de Ventura just west of the Loop 101 Pima Freeway last April.

A specific opening date hasn’t been announced.

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