Meadowlands, NJ - If you love horses and want to witness both a moving and beautiful interpretation of man and animal's co-existence, then gallop - don't trot - to see "Cavalia" now through July 5.

One of the skilled acrobatic trick riders. (All production photos courtesy of "Cavalia")

"Cavalia" is a larger-than-life stage production, featuring heart-stopping acrobatics, original live music, projected images and over 100 performers, including a troupe of 60 brilliant horses from around the globe, including Canada, France, Spain and the United States. Twenty of the horses are stallions while the others are geldings, and there are no mares, however, two young colts recently rescued in Atlanta made their appearance at the end of the show to receive their just share of oohs and aahs.

The different breeds used in "Cavalia" include "The Canadian (known for its strength, willingness, curiosity and resistance to harsh climates; the Criollo (considered among the toughest and most reliable horses in the world); the Quarter Horse, the Paint Horse, the Appaloosa, as well as the Canadian and Criollo are all known for their speed, agility, muscle structure and spontaneity; the Belgian (known for 'Herculean' strength); the Comtois (known for extreme docility and exemplary gentleness); the Oldenburg (known for beauty and freedom of action); and the Warmblood (which excel in jumping and dressage)."

Exploring, and paying homage to, the relationship between these majestic, equine creatures and humanity, the message "Cavalia" offers is received loud and clear - be aware of, respect and care for these magnificent creatures.

This handsome fellow was enjoying the attention prior to the evening's production. He simply loved having his photo taken and appeared to actually pose.

Creating an enchanting, fantastical setting, and incorporating stunning special and lighting effects, usually at least 40 horses are used in each production. The horses gallop, cavort, dance, and a few times run completely unbridled.

Exploring humankind's fascinating history and bond with the horse - the production explores a thematic line of the evolution of horses and human interaction, including life in the wilderness through early domestication. The production never fails to remind the audience of not only the majesty and intelligence of these great animals, but man's reliance on them throughout history.

Created by Cirque du Soleil co-founder, Normand Latourelle, "Cavalia" took nearly a decade to develop and produce and is a breathtaking orchestration of multimedia, equestrian and performing arts. The production began in 2003, and has traveled the world combining acrobatic and equestrian disciplines, such as dressage at liberty, Haute Ecole and Trick Riding, utilizing not only the horses, but the tremendous skills of an international collection of equestrians, trainers, handlers and experts capable of bringing Latouelle's vision of a production that would allow horses to bring all their power, agility and beauty to the arena to be realized.

Production number Le Miroir.

The 'other' stars of this production including all of the acrobats, riders, and musicians are to be commended for their artistic skills, as well as the obvious joy and respect they have for these animals which they reveal to the audience.

Production number Carrousel.

Regarding the care of the horses, the program clearly states "Cavalia's rhythm of life is based on the horses. [We] put on a maximum of seven shows per week and each horse has a substitute. This allows [us] to give the horses a few days or weeks holiday...a team of 20 people including a stable manager, two veterinary technicians, a blacksmith and several grooms take care of the horses' well-being; balanced and personalized diet, training program, etc."

When traveling long distances the horses are transported by cargo plane accompanied by a transport team and a veterinarian. Each horse "Gets their fair share of pampering, including a shower, grooming, massage, outings to the paddocks and workshops with their riders." At the end of the production, attendees with a Rendez-Vous and/or Horse Lovers ticket package were allowed access to the stables but had to wait until the horses had received their showers and were being fed - absolutely no pictures are allowed during the performance and no flash photography, feeding or petting of the horses is allowed in the stables. Many of the 'stars' showed absolutely no interest in their new fans, but a few ears did prick with the overwhelming number of audible "beautiful, beautiful" comments being bestowed on them.

The horses are immediately showered and fed following the show.

If you opt for the reasonably priced Rendez-Vous Package be prepared to be as pampered as the horses, including a pre-show buffet dinner offering some of the most delicious and versatile offerings to match any five star restaurant - grilled and raw shrimp, sushi, pasta, salmon quiche, chicken satay, fresh vegtables, couscous and more to enjoy in an attractive tent complete with crystal chandeliers, china and candles. At intermission the desserts offered were numerous and outstanding, including cupcakes, brownies, chocolates, cheese, fruit and mouth-watering white chocolate covered strawberries. During the pre-show, show and at intermission attendees could also partake of fresh made popcorn and ice cream as well, while shopping in the gift shop set up in the tent. While waiting for the stable tour following the production, some of the show's human performers mingled among the crowd posing for pictures - much to the delight of the young and awe-struck children in the tent.

An absolutely delightful evening and fun-filled escape for anyone, at any age, who truly enjoys first rate entertainment offering something to learn by talented, skilled, enthusiastic performers - both the two and four legged ones!

For more information, a detailed list of show dates and reservations, call 1-866-999-8111 or go to www.cavalia.net.

Production number Poste Hongroise.