Cavalia: Odysseo | Normand Latourelle | Talks at Google

TL;DR

Cavalia and Odysseo are innovative horse shows that captivate audiences with their stunning performances, happy horses, and unique integration of performing arts with the horse world.

Transcript

FEMALE SPEAKER: Please. [APPLAUSE] Which. Before I say any more, we can flip the switch to give you a little teaser of what this amazing show is all about, in case you haven't seen it before. [APPLAUSE] That gives me goosebumps just to see that teaser video. Cavalia was the first show that was produced and toured the world. Over four million people... Read More

Key Insights

• 🏇 The idea for Cavalia came from the realization that horses stole the focus from performers during a different show.
• 🏇 The shows prioritize the happiness and well-being of the horses, creating a real bond between the trainers and the animals.
• 🌍 Cavalia and Odysseo showcase a unique integration of performing arts with the horse world, creating a magical and feel-good experience for audiences.

Questions & Answers

Q: Where did the idea for Cavalia come from?

The idea for Cavalia initially came from the realization that horses attracted more attention from the audience than the performers. Normand Latourelle decided to incorporate more horses into the show, leading to the creation of Cavalia.

Q: What was the goal behind creating Cavalia and Odysseo?

The goal was to integrate performing arts into the horse world and create shows that featured happy horses. Normand Latourelle wanted to push the boundaries of what could be achieved in a touring show and ensure the horses were well taken care of.

Q: How do horses react during the shows?

Horses in Cavalia and Odysseo are given the freedom to express themselves. They are allowed to run, jump, and even play with their trainers. The shows incorporate different disciplines, allowing the horses to showcase their unique abilities and create a world apart from traditional horse shows.

Q: How do you train horses for the liberty portions of the show?

Training horses for the liberty portions is a gradual process that involves developing a bond with the horses and giving them the space to express themselves. The trainers spend a significant amount of time with the horses, allowing them to learn at their own pace and ensuring their comfort and happiness on stage.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Normand Latourelle, co-founder of Cirque du Soleil, created Cavalia as a show that combines horses with French Canadian tales, but realized the horses stole the focus and decided to incorporate more horses into the show.

• The idea for Odysseo emerged from the desire to push the integration of performing arts into the horse world even further and create a bigger, touring show.

• Both shows prioritize the happiness of their horses, showcasing a true bond between the trainers/performers and the horses.