They’re powerful, graceful, majestic and used to the constant pampering. No, Brangelina aren’t in town – these are the stars of Hong Kong’s upcoming equestrian and acrobatic extravaganza, Cavalia.
Coconuts HK took a peek inside the mysterious white tent on the Central Harbourfront to learn the secrets to keeping stroppy mares happy and why horses’ mane must be braided every night.
The show, from the very brain of Cirque du Soleil pioneer Norman Latourelle, aims to depict the unique relationship between humans and horses through eye-popping acrobatics, cutting-edge visuals and general heart-stopping horseplay.
The opening March 31 performance will be Cavalia’s 2,600th since it started touring in 2003, and the first ever in Hong Kong.
Whenever animals are used in entertainment, however, there’s bound to be a few concerns about the conditions they’re kept in.
But unlike us poor saps, the Cavalia horses travel in style. They flew to Hong Kong on a chartered 747 aircraft complete with custom-built stalls, allowing enough room for the gee-gees to sup Champers without bending their elbows.
Talk about luxury.
Once on Hong Kong soil, the entire Cavalia herd was whisked away in air-conditioned transport courtesy of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, which is also providing veterinary support around the clock.
A groomer gives a horse a manicure. The horses get their feet hydrated with grease daily. These working mares sure have it made.
And just in case you’re wondering, every horse gets its mane braided each night, after every show, so that it stays long, healthy and shiny.
Once on site, they have ample space to perform exercises and learn the routine with their trainers.
Taranis, a Comtois breed horse, shares a friendly moment with stunt rider, Katherine Cox, inside the Cavalia stable. They’re clearly both using Mane & Tail.
What: Cavalia: A Magical Encounter Between Human and Horse
When: Premieres March 31
Where: Under the White Big Top at the Central Harbourfront. Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central
Price: From HKD395
Photos: Kevin Dharmawan
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