What do you get when you mix 71 Horses from 6 different countries; trained acrobats & dancers from all over the world; and Atlanta, Georgia? Cavalia Odysseo! The show is performed under the largest White Big Top in the world.

Cavalia is based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The company “presents large-scale equestrian productions involving trick riding, vaulting, haute`ecole¹ and pas de deux², unbridled displays, and Cirque du Soleil-like performances.” Cavalia was created by Normand Latourelle, whom is also one of the original founders of Cirque du Soleil.

A mixture of Humans and Horses, the show is an elaborate production in which the two species become one. Odysseo’s Equestrian Director and Choreographer, Benjamin Aillaud commands precise movements from the horses with a mere lift of his hands. It is an amazing sight to see. Although humans control the show, the true stars of the production are the horses themselves. Made up of 26 Stallions and 45 Geldings, there are no mares. “The horses are only asked to practice one hour each day, and get two hours each day for play. They only perform for 5-10 minutes per show, 7-8 times per week, and the horses are trained to understudy for each other so different horses can be given the day off.”

Normand Latourelle
Founder & Artistic Director

The driving force behind Cirque du Soleil, Latourelle has been in the performing arts for over 40 years. He founded Cavalia in 2003, and has been fully dedicated to its productions ever since. In 2007, Normand received the Ordre National du Quebec³ for his achievements.

Benjamin Aillaud
Equestrian Director & Choreographer

Born in France, Aillaud bought his first horse at the age of 6. He has been performing horse tricks, as well as training horses since then; he is now 33. Benjamin is “twice vice-champion of the world and four-time champion of France in four-horse carriage.” He has been equestrian director for Cavalia since 2009.

Location: Midtown Atlanta – 8th and Spring Street
Dates: December 7, 2011 through January 8, 2012

More Info: www.Cavalia.net or 1-866-999-8111

¹purest form of classical riding
²french, step of two
³civilian honor for merit in the Canadian province of Quebec

Check out sneak peek of Rehearsals and Show below:

Special thanks to: Tara Murphy of 360 Media, Normand Latourelle, Benjamin Aillaud &Wayne Fowkes of Cavalia, Cutty’s Couch TV.

Tags: 360 Media, Benjamin Aillaud, Cavalia, Cavalia Odysseo, Midtown Atl, Normand Latourelle, Tara Murphy, Wayne Fowkes

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