Cavalia: Odysseo

Sitting in the dimly lit tent of "Odyseo" looking at the stage with its sand-covered floor and forest projection on the gauzy curtains surrounding a center ring, it is clear that something magical is about to happen. And then it does.

The first horse steps out; he is soon joined by several others. They wander and sniff as though they are in their own pasture passing the day. The visual is breathtaking, like peeking into an enchanted forest populated by beautiful horses. The feel is a pure joy that is infectious and brings beaming smiles to every audience member's face.

As more horses enter, their riders enter as well. The affection between them is immediately evident with mutual admiration expressed through nuzzles and pats, quiet whinnies and sweet whispers. Anticipation fills the tent as everyone now has a sense of the beauty about to be unveiled.

But the magic begins as soon as the big top is visible with spires like skyscrapers and smaller tents by its side like a castle grounds filled with wonderful surprises. The Rendezvous VIP experience begins with a catered dinner and drinks in one of the tents furnished with dining tables, cozy couches, and popcorn to go.

During intermission, decadent desserts are served, and the show is followed by a visit to the stables where horse performers can be viewed as they munch their hay, get their hair braided and relax after the big show. Rendezvous patrons also have access to an outside courtyard for eating and relaxing and private restrooms. Between the eats, the treats, and especially the seats, patrons cannot help but feel special.

But A VIP pass is not required to get lost in this magical equestrian extravaganza. Every seat in the big top provides a feast for the eyes, the ears, and the soul. The stage transforms from an enchanted forest to a rolling pasture that appears to stretch for miles. The horses and riders that seem to be projected images on a background step onto the stage and ride down the grassy hill.

Audience members are transported to a mystical land where the equine and the human seem to become one, riding in intricate patterns and shapes. And then the stage is a shallow pond where one horse's dance invites celebration and joy, where he prances and flits at the water's edge before he enters with grace.

The horses and their riders are not the only attractions, though; a troupe of acrobats who are also musicians are equally beautiful and mystifying with flips and leaps, and pyramids and dances. There are the aerialists who defy gravity with every move. They enter on horseback and seem to appear magically in the air on an enchanted carousel or fly into the sky.

Each move looks effortless, full of beauty and grace. One scene includes aerial silk performers above and riders on horseback below joined with the white silks creating a mystical parallel of strength and beauty.

As if the visual display were not enough, the show is filled with mesmerizing music from the live band and vocalist that play a key role in transporting the audience into the enchanted world of equine and human grace, beauty and magic.

"Odysseo" is playing through August 28 at the white big top in Zidell Yards, 3030 SW Moody Avenue in Portland. For information or tickets, call 866-999-8111 or visit http://cavalia.net/en/odysseo/tickets-info/portland-or-usa/calendar#FLLDftoRoaU4qFI7.97.