MAY 2012 THE RIDER /29 Odysseo Horse Spectacular Rides Into Toronto May 15


Several years ago, I was invited to a new equestrian “circus” called Cavalia that was being presented by the co-founder of the internationally acclaimed Cirque du Soliel, Normande Latourelle. As I took my seat in the stands, I could smell the familiar sawdust and hay and as the lights dimmed and the music swelled, I will never forget gasping that first time the horses entered the arena without riders or reins, perfect- ly choreographed and groomed to perfection. Several horses cantered around the stage “paddock” as human acrobats performed gym- nastic feats on, off and around the horses but not a beat was missed by either man or beast. It was simply stunning and I was mesmerized by the freedom of the horses who appeared to be under the complete yet invisible control of the trainers and acrobats. The ever-changing video back- drops, the colourful costumes, the human athletic artistry and musical score all worked in harmony to create an unworldly presence and as each vignette was introduced, I felt the crowd become one with the horses.


From May 15th through 27th, Cavalia’s Artistic Director and Founder Latourelle brings his exciting new Odysseo show to Ontario with 70 horses and 50 artists performing under the world’s largest, most spectacular big top tent being raised at Toronto’s Port Lands. ‘’With this new creation, Cavalia marries the equestrian arts, stage arts and high-tech theatrical effects at never-before-seen levels. We’ve created a verita- ble revolution in live performance: the world’s largest touring big top, the biggest stage, the most beautiful visual effects, and the greatest number of horses at play. Most importantly, it’s a world of happiness,’’ Latourelle enthuses.


When I spoke with Latourelle in April, I asked him what inspired his new show: “Cavalia showcased the history of the relationship between humankind and horses. With Odysseo, I wanted to present the entire journey shared by man and horse as they set out to conquer the world. A true partnership that has lasted since the dawn of civi- lization,” Normand explained. “In fact, the sub- title of the show is “Partner”, with horses and man travelling through time side by side, discov- ering the planet together.”


“Odysseo will show the horse as man’s devoted and playful friend, sharing space with humankind with a poetic approach,” he contin- ues. “The horses are trained to respond to mini- mal soft verbal commands from their trainers who also give subtle visual cues. Everything they do must be a natural behaviour for the horse. We


accept the individual horses’ behaviours and style. Each horse shares 2 trainers who act more like horse listeners than horse whisperers. And each human performer wears little or no make-up so the horses can actually recognize the faces of their human handlers when performing.” Along with its integrated acrobatic stunts, multiple equestrian disciplines and sophisticated high-tech effects using multiple giant video screens, the Odysseo arena also incorporates 25ft high mountains and a prairie set that actually fills with water to form a lake. The fact these 70 equine performers know all their cues and remain calm and unruffled amid the overpowering sets and crowds of appreciative fans is an amazing testament to the diligence and handling of the Cavalia trainers.


The original production, Cavalia: A Magi- cal Encounter between Human and Horse, has been touring since 2003 and has thrilled over three million spectators across North America and Europe. Odysseo pushes the limits of live entertainment even further by creating a two-hour feast for the eyes and ears for this, the only North American stop of the current world tour. Tickets are on sale now and range in price from $29.50 to $119.50 plus applicable service charges. For guests who desire an extraordinary outing, take advantage of the unique experience of the Horse Lovers Package that allows patrons to tour the Cavalia stables after the show, or the VIP Rendez-Vous Package which includes a post-show stable tour plus a cocktail/dinner reception and much more. Special pricing is available for children (2-12), juniors (13-17), and senior citizens (65+). For ticket info, visit www.cavalia.net or call 1-866-999-8111.


By Glenda Fordham


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