Last week we posted an update to the article on Cavalia we published (click here to read about it) which described an incident that was witnessed by one of our readers who was attending the show live in Burbank on January 25th. This week, we received an email from Cavalia's art director, Normand Latourelle bringing clarification to the mishap as well as assuring us that the treatment of the horses by the team is of the utmost importance.
In all fairness, we believe that it is our duty to share with you the information passed onto us by an official representative of Cavalia.
READ THE LETTER BELOW:
"Dear Love Angeles, On behalf of the cast and crew of Cavalia, I am writing you about the performance one of your reader attended on January 25th. We understand his or her concerns and would like to share some information about what happened.
First and foremost, we want to let you and your readers know that the horses and performers are all fine. The two horses that slipped and fell during the Roman Riding segment were immediately walked out of the stage and were looked at by their trainer and one of Cavalia’s two full-time veterinary technicians. During the intermission which immediately followed, our technical crew worked on the slippery spot. In retrospect, they did not correct the problem properly. Thinking all was well, the second act started and the show continued. Another incident happened at the same location during the last part of the show, a Liberty act, where nine horses are running totally free with their trainer using only voice commands and hand signals to communicate. As you can imagine slowing down nine horses playing and running free on a huge stage is not something that can be done instantly. Once the horses slowed down, she walked them on stage and ensured that they were all fine. She then made some adjustments, shortening the act and making sure the horses would not go back on the slippery spot. All and all, I believe Cavalia’s artists acted in the best interest of the horses, handling this unfortunate situation with calmness and good judgement.
Right after the show, Cavalia’s technical crew began an immediate investigation of the stage and footing that lasted well into the night as well as the following day. Numerous tests were performed and an extensive evaluation took place, as our crew worked to get to the bottom of the problem. The water absorption rate of a substance used in the footing (obtained locally) proved to be the issue. Changes and adjustments were made so the problem won’t reoccur. I assure you that the well-being of our horses is our first priority whether it’s on the stage, in the stables, or on their vacation. It is our main objective to keep our horses safe, healthy and happy and we put all possible efforts into fulfilling that goal."
Normand Latourelle, Artistic Director
