Cavalia's 'Odysseo' Enchants Audiences of All Ages

Cavalia's 'Odysseo' is playing under a big top in Burbank through March 24.

Hidden under a towering white Big Top in Burbank is Cavalia, a magical show that brings together beautiful horses and ethereal performers who don't so much entertain as captivate.

Cavalia's latest incarnation, Odysseo, opened to rousing praise on Feb. 27, when CC and I caught the show with friends. As with their performance in 2011, we were once again thrilled by an amazing live spectacle that includes 67 horses (all males, much to CC's dismay), 44 artists, a 15,000 square-foot stage and a finale that includes an 80,000-gallon onstage lake.

Impressed? Why yes, we were.

What's magical about this show is the gentle communication between horse and human. There are no whips or harsh words. It's not a circus or rodeo, but rather something more serene.

The set alone is breathtaking, taking on a woodland theme of tall trees surrounding a hilly stage of sand. A video backdrop the size of three IMAX screens extends along the back and realistically creates the illusion that you're at times on Easter Island, in a desert or surrounded by snow.

The horses captivate by running freely over the stage, responding to performers' words, turning in circles, placing their heads on each other and galloping at nearly full speed as the artists twist and turn over their bodies.

You don't often get to see large animals roaming freely one minute and performing beautifully the next. It's an experience I would recommend to anyone -- adult or child -- who can appreciate the wonder of nature.

Cavalia
Under the Big White Big Top
777 N. Front St.
Burbank, CA 91502
866-999-8111
Through March 24
Tickets:  $49.50-$159.50 (adults); $34.50-$119.50 (children ages 2-12)

Note: Press tickets provided.