The Magic Of Cavalia Odysseo

When you live in a big city, you tend to feel like you have seen everything. And I can tell you from a theater perspective, I have now, after seeing a fabulous show called Cavalia Odysseo. This incredibly unique show comes from Montreal, Quebec, Canada and is simply breathtaking.

If you have seen Cirque du Soleil, you will sense some similarities. The key difference between the shows are the horses and their story. “…an ode to horse and man, that marries the equestrian arts, awe inspiring acrobatics and high tech theatrical effects.” Held in Soldier Field’s South parking lot, the very first thing you notice as you approach the stadium is a massive white tent.It is very difficult to fully explain the experience as you are transported into a world where beautiful music sets the stage for a story told through the actions of stunning horses and aerialists. Within the show, you will see acrobats, horseback riders, aerialists, dancers, musicians and singers. Where a massive video backdrop moves you from scenery to scenery and from country to country. And a carousel descends from the sky to be the stage for aerialists, dancers and horses to tell a story and then to the magically appearing 40,000 gallon lake at the front of the stage that feels like it has been there the whole show.

I was fortunate to be able to attend the show with a VIP ticket which allowed me to have access to the Rendez Vous Lounge tent. Having an invitation like this offers a way to see the show that simply elevates the whole experience. Adjacent to the main show tent is another white tent that is the home for those that have the VIP tickets. Full, high quality dinner buffets and a dessert table that is just delectable as well as open bar along with the opportunity to tour the stables and stage after the show are just some of the benefits of having these special tickets.

Dessert Table:

After the show, we toured backstage. The “lake” is getting ready for the next show. 

For the protection of the horses, we were asked not to take photos during the show due to the flash. With that in mind, I am sharing some stage photos and this video directly from Cavalia’s management team. 

A few notable details that make this show even more magnificent:

• 65 horses in each show

• 48 artists perform in each show
• No fewer than 365 costumes are used in each performance
• The White Big Top spans over 58,000 square feet
• There are over 2000 seats in the audience
• Moving the show from city to city takes over 120 vehicles
• The kitchen prepares over 600 meals a day

As a child who loved to ride horses, this brought back so many feelings of being in the stables and admiring the magnificence of horses. The show’s storytelling is captivating. You will feel like you are experiencing the environment, dance and emotions of the cast. This show is just one you have to see to truly understand.

Cavalia Odysseo will be in Chicago until May 14 and then traveling to its next location. You will find details on Cavalia’s website. Using this special code, “Social”, will give you a 15% discount on tickets. If you are able to attend the show, you will be talking about it for weeks after. It’s just that special.

Go to see Cavalia Odysseo and be transported in to this magical experience.