Cavalia
The fusion between man and horse
by Katherine Woodcock

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Throughout the years we have witnessed how our friend and companion of conquests of new worlds, of successes and joys, has evolved alongside the creativity of man. It is with good reason why he continues to be an ideal complement to our lives, in tournaments of diverse disciplines, great competitions, as a source of employment for many, as a mode of transportation to distant regions, inspiration for poets, designers and artists such as Normand Latourelle, who is president and artistic director of Cavalia.
He took part in the development of Cirque du Soleil and is known for his imagination, achieving impressive and memorable events in his native Canada and abroad.
Latourelle is a man who lets loose his imagination, accompanied by a number of talented and tech-savvy individuals who then launch a spectacular event.
Cavalia represents the union between man and horse in a beautiful and innovative way. The spectators are transported to a world full of creativity and imagination, which combines the three equestrian arts, dance and acrobatics. It is considered as one of the most beautiful and colorful equestrian spectacles in the world, the marvelous alliance between man and horse is evident.
The trainers have authentic complicity and communication with the horses, they speak to them, using gestures and body language, and they are able to create a notion of play and enjoyment at work.
This technique requires more time and patience than other more traditional methods, but they yield better results. Each horse has its own personality. The trainers establish a strong rapport with each horse.
The horses needs approximately six to ten months of training for each to learn its role.
Allowing them to express their personalities allows them to achieve a routine, and only then does the ring become a playground for the horses. Every once in a while a specific horse requires an extra day of rest, therefore, all the horses are taught the roles of the others so the horses needing rest can
be replaced.
THE HORSES
The Lusitano
The Lusitano horse is one of the more ancient and pure races in the world. Originating from the Iberain peninsula (Portugal and Spain), it is known for its bravery and courage. The Lusitano has been used as a warhorse and as a mount in Portuguese bullfighting. This horse is elegant and stands out in its training and dressage.

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The Quarter Horse
Used for the “quarter mile” races, the Quarter Horse fast became very popular with cowboys due to his spontaneity and his keenness with cattle. Calm, fast and versatile, the Quarter Horse is one of the most popular breeds of horsesin the world.
The Appaloos
A breed developed in the 18th century by the Nez Perce tribe of Native Americans, the Appaloosa horse is famous for his colorful, spotted coat. Adopted as the state horse of Idaho in 1975, the Appaloosa was once called “a Palouse horse” because of the Palouse River region where the breed originated.
The Canadian horse
An unknown little Canadian treasure, this breed descends from horses sent to the New World by King Louis XIV. Named “The Little Iron Horse,” the Canadian Horse is known for his strength, willingness, curiosity, and resistance to harsh climates. Once on the verge of extinction, there are now more than 2,500 Canadian Horses in existence.

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The Belgian Horse
The Belgian is without a doubt one of the most ancient breeds, known for his Herculean force. He was used as a battle-horse from the Middle Ages to World War II and for generations the breed contributed as a
valued worker on farms. The Belgian’s magnificent amber-colored coat is easily recognizable.