The Royal Horse Gala

By Rebecca Gibson

Event diary

23 July 2010 12:04

The Royal Horse Gala is set to return to the UK for the first time in 16 years. The spectacular show will include magical choreographed performances by Lipizzaner, Lusitano, Andalusian, Arabs and Friesian stallions from five of the world’s outstanding classical riding schools. The show will take place this September at the O2 Arena in London.

Horse and theatre lovers alike will be thrilled by the spectacle of 36 impressive stallions- Lipizzaners from the Lipica Stud; Andalusians from the Spanish Riding school of Samuel Lopez Ortiz at Albecete; Lusitanoes from different Portugese Riding School, Friesians from the Royal Stud of the Netherlands as well as the highly trainable Arabs performing flamboyant displays of classical dressage and horsemanship to the rhythmic sounds of flamenco music enhanced by spectacular theatrical lighting that will conjure up all the passion of Spain.

Elegance, harmony and power combine in a demonstration of the partnership and the special bond that exists between horse and rider. Among the performances that the stallions and their immensely talented riders in bright and exotic costumes will present are: a simulated garrocha – the work with the bull that will have spectators on the edge of their seats; a breathtaking piaffe to music and Pas de Deux – horse ballet at its best; incredible circus acts; group performances such as the majestic Grand Quadrille and the piece de resistance, a complete Grand Prix performance on the long rein by Raphael Lopez, Master Horse Trainer of Caballos Espanoles. French horse whisperer Jean-Marc Imbert, who trains his horses bareback using only his voice, will also make a special guest appearance.
 
Promoter Stuart Galbraith, who originally brought The Royal Horse Gala to Britain in 1996 says: “The first time we brought the show here it was a sell out and received rave reviews and I always said I would bring it back. It’s taken 16 years but I know audiences will feel it’s been worth the wait – it’s even more spectacular, more exciting and more entertaining than ever before. Horse lovers will flock to this show but we believe this is a great family event – there is something for everyone”.

The Gala will be held at the O2 Arena in London for one weekend only. Matinee performances will be held at 3pm on Sat 11th and Sunday 12th September and there will also be a gala night at 8pm on the Saturday.

Tickets are available now at www.kililive.com or by calling the O2 arena on 0844 856 0202.