ODYSSEO’S 65 FOUR-LEGGED STARS MAKE RED CARPET ARRIVAL

AT SOLDIER FIELD SOUTH LOT IN ADVANCE OF FIRST PERFORMANCE, APRIL 1

With only five days before making its Midwest debut, Odysseo – the world’s largest touring production – puts the final touches on its massive preparations

CHICAGO, IL (Monday, March 27, 2017) #OdysseoCHI – Sixty-five majestic horses, stars of the $30 million theatrical production Odysseo, have officially taken up residence at their new home in Chicago ahead of the equestrian extravaganza’s first performance Saturday, April 1. Upon their arrival at The White Big Top, the horses will start rehearsals and reconnect with their human co-stars.

Odysseo is a show unlike any other on the planet. It is a unique theatrical production and a grandiose multi-dimensional spectacle. Audiences are taken to a live Hollywood-style movie set, where the moving interactions between human and horse are at the heart of the action. On an enormous stage, layers of mesmerizing decor are combined with live music, gravity-defying acrobatics and aerial stunts. Add the staggering effects created by state-of-the-art scenery and you have a sumptuous feast for the eyes.

The horses have arrived at their spacious stable tent, adjacent to Odysseo’s massive White Big Top at Soldier Field South Lot, following a 14-day vacation at a local farm in Bristol, WI, under the watchful eye of a dedicated team of Cavalia’s equine specialists. The specially equipped trailers transporting the four-legged stars to Soldier Field South Lot were the last to arrive of the 110 semi-trailer trucks necessary to move the world’s largest touring production from its latest stop in British Columbia, Canada.

Before, during and after transport, a 20-person stables team including trainers, health technicians and grooms create a comfortable environment and provide the horses with daily health care, grooming and activities. Once settled in the 17,200 square-foot stable tent, the horses each have a designated box with ample space to stretch, lie down, sprawl out, roll and relax. They always have the same neighbors to ensure a familiar and comforting environment in each city.

Every day the horses receive their share of pampering, including showers, grooming, massages, workshops with their riders, and outings to the paddocks where they roam and play. The performance aspect for each horse lasts roughly 12 minutes. The rest of their daily activities also include warm-up and free time. Odysseo’s horse training is based on communication, observation and patience as well as a keen understanding of each horse’s talents and needs. The tone of the show, embraced by the entire company, is one of mutual respect, kindness and trust.

With only five days before the first performance of Odysseo in Chicago April 1, workers are completing the installation of the largest touring production in the world.

“It takes 10,000 tons of stone, earth and sand to create a phenomenal stage, an open space where man and horse come to enjoy each other’s company in complete complicity,” explains Odysseo’s resident artistic director Darren Charles. “Overhanging the performance area is a technical grid that can support 80 tons of equipment, including a full-sized merry-go-round. This defies everything that has ever been done under a tent to date in the world.”

TICKETS – Adult tickets are priced from $34.50 to $144.50 (service charge included). Special pricing and packages also available for groups, children (2-12), juniors (13-17) and seniors (65+). For an extra special outing, the Rendez-Vous VIP package offers the best seats in the house, full meal buffet dining before the show, open bar, desserts during intermission and an exclusive visit to the stables after the show. This unique VIP experience takes place in a tent alongside the White Big Top. The Rendez-Vous VIP package prices range from $144.50 to $269.50 (service charge included).

ABOUT CAVALIA INC. – Cavalia Inc. is an entertainment company that specializes in the creation, production and touring of innovative shows. Founded by Normand Latourelle, the company reimagines the equestrian and theatrical arts. With its headquarters in Montreal, Cavalia Inc. is an integral part of Canada’s cultural heritage, and the largest Canadian-owned cultural enterprise. Its expertise in high technology, multimedia and special effects creates magical, unique, never-before-seen experiences. Its first show, Cavalia, has been seen by more than 4 million people across North America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Asia since its 2003 debut. Odysseo, the company’s second show, has toured to rave reviews and public acclaim since its 2011 premiere. Follow Cavalia’s latest developments at www.twitter.com/cavalia or www.facebook.com/cavalia. #OdysseoCHI

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