As the lights dimmed, I glared through the sheer curtains of the stage with no expectations. Within moments, the most beautiful white horses, as if semi-imposed on the scene, commenced to playfully and innocently run around within a stage majestically arranged as a three-dimensional forest with rolling hills. I watched in awe at how the stage designers created sceneries of nature so exquisite, I forgot I was within the confines of a very big white tent in the middle of Midtown Atlanta, GA.
The horses knew exactly where to run and when to disappear into the forest (it looks nothing like a stage) with seemingly no one guiding them. As the show progressed, I thought, this was more than I ever could have imagined, and I’m all in. Everything about Cavalia suggests grace and stunning beauty from the absolutely gorgeous riders (men and women) performing amazing stunts, including riding on multiple horses at one time adorned in colorful and ornate costumes (had to throw a bit a fashion in there). In one scene that left me speechless, the horses and their riders, in a mysterious silhouette, rode over the hilltop in complete harmony and, well, disappeared. Amazing!
There are several themes taking place throughout the show, and the horses are truly its stars, however, the African Acrobats from Guinea wowed me with jaw dropping flips, and the aerialists and the dancers performed synchronized routines that made me want to run to the gym for some upper body work.
The soloist is blessed with the most amazing voice that melds seamlessly with the scenes and creates the perfect ambiance. The music and the show were a match made in heaven making me want to purchase the soundtrack immediately at the end of the show. From the mesmerizing setting of the sun to the enchanting winter wonderland, I sat totally enthralled by this most wonderful experience that more than exceed my expectation.
The show culminates with water filling the forest (yes, I said water filing the forest) and the horses splashing through what appears to be the shore of a body of water. Oh and make sure to look for Frosty the beautiful Gelding actually gives you a smile at the end of the show. I didn’t think about the hectic week I had or the city outside. In essence, the production transported me to a fantasy land and I did not want to leave.
Remember the old commercial, “Calgon take me away”? I was definitely saying “Cavalia take me away!’ What a great way to spend two hours!
Cavalia Odysseo Production is now showing through January 8, 2012. Prices begin at $49.50(children) to $229.50(VIP Packages) available online or at the Cavalia box office. For more information visit www.cavalia.net or 866.999.8111.
