Cavalia Odysseo at National Harbor, MD

October 13, 2013 - When I heard that a new Cavalia show named Odysseo was coming to VA, I very much wanted to see it. I saw Cavalia years ago in VA and Odysseo is the second creation of this production. I'm reminded of Cirque du Soliel, as I've seen several of their shows over the years. The artistic direction of Odysseo is by Normand Latourelle, who has held various roles in the industry and was a pioneer with the Cirque du Soliel shows for five years (1985-90). With his partner in business and in life Dominique, and with his two sons David and Mathieu, their family has embraced this adventure together. These kind of productions are only successful with a dedicated and talented team and crew, so there is much praise for all that are involved in making Odysseo come to life and run.

I saw ads and comments and posts about Odysseo and made my desire known to see Odysseo, and one of my friends saw it and had extra tickets for me. I was thrilled and thankful and planned to take my mother to the show. As we drove to National Harbor we could see the White Big Top in the distance and when we walked up the hill, we could sense how large an area the tent occupies. Walking into the tent there were people milling about looking at the Odysseo products and getting food and drink concessions. As we walked to our seats we could see a long enchanted silhouette forest curtain covering the performance area and even that was an impressive site.  The anticipation was palpable and the audience was ready to be amazed.

The enchanted forest curtain and mistiness went away to reveal a herd of horses grazing against the backdrop of a setting sun. It was a peaceful setting where dreams were free to roam. Then the stage altered as the audience was transported to a scenic landscape of hills with a desert in the distance. Then a herd of horses arrive, seemingly searching for an oasis where they can find water and rest.  

 

 

Cavalia Odysseo is a breathtaking show that honors and reveals the bond between horse and man. The interaction between them is a joy to watch. With incredible equestrian performances, amazing acrobatics and cinematic and theatrical effects, Odysseo will take you on a journey which will life your spirits and stir your soul. Words and even pictures, however wonderful, don't aptly describe and show the event as well as seeing it live. Under a 38-meter tall White Big Top, the audience is taken around the world with more than 50 horses and an international cast of talented individuals.

With Odysseo, entertainment is taken to new levels and should be seen live, because it is a treat for the senses and something to be experienced. I did not take pictures from where I was seated, but it would be a dream of mine to photograph this show with my DSLR camera. Maybe someday. There are enough photos on the Odysseo website to give people a taste of what's in store with the show. Perhaps you will come away from the experience with more than the delight in your senses, but souvenirs. I purchased nearly $60 worth, including a program. Odysseo is a remarkable show and experience. I hope you can see it. Journey on.