Cavalia 2009

Prologue

The production starts early in time, when man first meets horse. Two colts are featured (for the Scottsdale shows, they are chosen locally through a contest). The colts interact with all the dancers, gaining each other's trust and setting the stage for the rest of the show.

Dance (The Discovery)

This act is very sensual, with a female dancer and one horse. The two discover each other by the water and interact through a poetic and passionate number in which lights are low, the music is deep and smoke surrounds the dancers. Usually a Lusitano or Spanish horse is used in this scene.

Pas de Deux (The Mirror)

A pair of horses and female dancers mirror each other's movements in this scene that relies heavily on dressage. This is a fairytale-like scene, and the women appear to be princesses floating on whimsical white steeds. Spanish horses are used in this act.

Roman Riding

The entire oval-shaped 160-foot wide stage is utilized during this intense act. The performers ride two horses at top speeds. One of the riders, Estelle Delgado, rides four horses, holding their reins and incorporating jumps. Strong and fast quarter horses are used for this.

Pieds percussion

Meaning "foot" percussion, this scene takes on a Spanish vibe with flamenco-style dancing and high-paced rhythms. Sixteen performers are onstage with three horses, clapping and tapping to the live music. Spanish horses are normally used.

Trick Riding

Performers will do stunts and acrobatics on the backs of horses. The horses also perform dressage at the command of trainers, who do not touch the animals. The show changes each night because the trainers allow the animals to be playful and spontaneous. Belgian, quarter and warmblood breeds are generally used in this scene.

Bungees and Riders

Patience and time were keys to train horses during this scene. Acrobats are lowered from the ceiling onto horsebacks. Snow falls from the ceiling, creating a magical mood before circling back to the finale. Spanish horses are in this act.