Show Synopsis
In Cavalia at Qasr al Hosn, horses performed together with many artists in front of a constantly changing digital background projected onto a 60 metre-wide screen, drawing spectators into dream-like virtual environments. Unlike traditional horse shows, the Cavalia at Qasr al Hosn audience faced a single 50 metre-wide stage which allowed the horses space to gallop at full speed, at times running completely free, unfettered by bridles or halters.
Starring 11 different equestrian breeds including Arabian, Pure Spanish and Miniature Horses, Cavalia at Qasr al Hosn took place under a white, 2,440-square-metre big top, rising some 35 metres high that gave the horses an ample playground to perform with their trainers and artists. The tone of the show, embraced by the entire company, was one of mutual respect, kindness, patience, and trust. Audiences found Cavalia exhilarating in scope, yet touching in the compassion shown by both horse and human.
Fact Box
- Cavalia’s horses are from France, Spain, Portugal, Canada, the United States, Australia and the Netherlands.
- The smallest horse, called Troubador, is 8 hands tall. He is a 15-year-old Miniature stallion.
- The tallest equine star, Merlin, is 18 hands tall. He is a 6-year-old Percheron.
- 2,500 tons of sand and dirt (100 truckloads) are required to build the stage for Cavalia.
- Setting up the Cavalia village – comprising the White Big Top, the Platinum tent, the artistic tent, the practice tent and the stable tent – is a 10 day window.
- During the course of one show, Cavalia’s artists wear up to 500 costumes and accessories.
