I want to run away with the "circus"

View of the stage from my seat

As a horse lover going as far back as I can remember, I was thrilled to discover this show was coming to San Diego.

To me, horses are the most majestic and graceful of the large animals. Only the big cats rival them in my view.  Just watch their muscles ripple when you are close up.

Had I seen Cavalia at age 18 (had to be age of consent) I would have run away with this group, forgetting about college degrees. They could be obtained later.

Always a concern is how the show animal is treated. I purchased a seat that was front row center so I could see them up close. Indeed one was probably only 4 feet from me. Their coats were shiny, their eyes clear, hoofs trimmed, mane and tails well groomed. Horses that are maltreated will bolt when turned loose but these slowly walked off stage demonstrating they had no fear. Being so close I could also see the horses being rewarded with carrots for a job well done. Behavior modification in action.

One of the pure Spanish horses

Indeed much of the show is about honoring and respecting these animals. One of the opening scenes portrays an early encounter between human and horse with the human advancing slowly toward the horse, respecting is boundaries. I loved this part for the message it sent.

Norman Latourelle is the president and artistic director of Cavalia and was a pioneer of Cirque du Soleil. His creative talent certainly shines through to make a most memorable experience. In the case of Cavalia you have first and foremost the horses and the human acrobats that defy gravity. The acrobats on the horses were mind boggling to this experienced rider.

The costumes, all designed to enhance the movements of the performer often flowed, further emphasizing the movement. The strength and agility of these young men and women was phenomenal. Up close I could see their well defined muscles.  Live musicians,  staging, and lighting are only part of the extensive talents that make this show such a phenomenal experience.

For the health and safety
of the horses we were not
allowed to touch!

I did not for one minute regret I had splurged on the VIP package. My parking was comped ($20), there was a tasty pre show buffet of a wide variety of tasty morsels, open bar with whatever you wished to imbibe. At intermission there was a dessert buffet (great cheesecake, chocolate goodies). We were allowed to pick up a last minute drink to take into the show with us and to take bags of dessert goodies such as brownies and cookies with us. A program was also provided as part of the package, but what sold me was the opportunity to go to the stables after the show!

Staff were amazingly courteous, informative, and helpful. Many were locals who had been hired on for the duration. They all took such pride in the event you would think they were part owners. 

While I seemed to be the only person alone  and it would have been so much more enjoyable to have shared the experience with someone, commenting on various aspects, I still I found it well worth every cent I spent.

I was also delighted to learn that these horses were being "fedexed" to Australia for some R & R near Brisbane at the completion of this run. Much deserved opportunity for them to run free!

Last I checked the show continues through December 30 with tickets ranging from about $50 to $250. For the true horse lover there could be no better Holiday experience than being treated to this show. As I write this I am wanting to go again! Even at the high end price! It truly is one of those great lifetime experiences for the most devoted of horse lovers.

All photos by Mary Strobbe