Odysseo, the unique and heart stopping equine extravaganza currently playing under the gigantic white big top in Irvine has extended its run until March 28 due to overwhelming success and demand with the local audience.  The sold out opening had over 2,000 spectators including the likes of Sharon Stone, Jonathan Rhys Meyer and Vivica A. Fox. It has been described as “A magical immersion, brimming over with music, visual delights, and amazing physical feats,” by The Dallas Morning News.

Spectators have been thrilled by this performance, which truly combines an amazing array of acts to create a show unlike any other. From the co-founder of Cirque de Soliel, Normand Latourelle, Odysseo blends the world of horse and human, taking you into the world of dreams. Rather than being merely a member of the audience, the entire experience seems to envelop you. Sitting under the 125ft tall white big top, you find yourself in a three dimensional forest with rolling clouds overhead, mist rising, horses grazing and the sun setting in the distance. All this occurs before the show has even begun! The stage spans over 17, 500 square feet and includes a three-story hill made up of over 10,000 tons of dirt, sand and rocks. The stunning backdrop is the size of three I-max screens and uses 18 digital projectors. Musical accompaniment is played and sung live for every performance.

The stage then begins to swell and curve before your eyes as a herd of horses emerges. Live music, special effects, over 65 horses and 48 performers - acrobats, dancers, aerialists performing on silks, musicians and skilled riders – come together creating Odysseo. The harmony between horses and humans is evident as you watch the scenes unfold. You can only marvel at the grace, beauty and talent that is allowing you to not just watch but experience the story of the ultimate dream of human and horse - Freedom.  From a carousel that seemingly drops from the sky to a real rainstorm and an 80,000-gallon lake that appears on stage – the show is enthralling from start to finish.

You will be mesmerized when Elise Verdoncq appears on stage at the opening of the show with 8 horses. This liberty scene is incredible to watch as she merely uses her voice and body language to control and bond with these majestic animals.

One breathtaking scene in the show has 42 horses running free on stage – no bits, reigns or leads – it’s rare to be able to see so many horses interacting and being free. Their power and beauty clearly shines. They seem almost human and childlike as they nip and play with one another. Another heart stopping scene has a rider performing acrobatics on, beside and around the horse while at a full gallop. The trust that must exist between rider and horse to perform such extraordinary feats is immeasurable. Children and adults alike will find themselves overjoyed and spellbound by this extraordinary work of art. Without a doubt, Odysseo will leave you moved, awed and speechless at its conclusion. 

Rendez-Vous ticket holders will enjoy cocktail hour followed by food in the Rendez-vous tent, center stage seating, desserts and beverages at intermission, a gift from the boutique and a stable tour after the show.  Horse aficionados will definitely want to purchase Rendez-Vous tickets for the opportunity to meet  the majestic giants that are the true stars of this unbelievable show. Families may prefer the matinee shows as the evening performance begins at 8pm. Shows last 2 hours and include a 30 minute intermission.

Odysseo will run through March 28, 2016 at the White Big Top located at the junction of the I-405 and SR-133 in Irvine with both matinee and evening performances. Tickets are priced from $29.50 to $269.50 + applicable taxes and fees. Special pricing and packages are available for groups, children (2-12), juniors (13-17) and seniors (65+). For more information or to purchase tickets go to www.cavalia.net

Campus Circle is also hosting a sweepstakes for a pair of tickets to see the show.  Please go to http://www.campuscircle.com/contests/ to enter.  Please note, the sweeps closes on March 1, 2016