CAVALLUNA Brings Europe’s Grand Equestrian Theatre to Hong Kong
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This September, Hong Kong will play host to an unprecedented theatrical masterpiece, one of Europe’s most celebrated live spectaculars as CAVALLUNA – Gate to the Otherworld makes its Asian premiere at Kai Tak Arena at Kai Tak Sports Park. Featuring 54 horses, an international cast of riders and dancers, cinematic staging and a sweeping fantasy narrative, the production arrives for eight performances on 8 and 10-13 September.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club is the Exclusive Presenting Partner and Cultural Host of CAVALLUNA — a signature highlight of its Year of the Horse campaign, which aims to honour the profound partnership between human and horse and to unite the community through thrilling races, international equestrian spectacles, and a special series of cultural, sporting, and family events.
“CAVALLUNA uniquely combines powerful emotions, spectacular equestrian artistry and cinematic storytelling,” says Mock-O’Hara. “We are neither a conventional horse show nor a traditional circus. Our focus is not on individual tricks or disciplines, but on an entire imaginative world in which horses, music, dance, lighting and storytelling merge to create a powerful, all-encompassing adventure.”
At the heart of that theatrical adventure are the horses themselves. “The horses are not merely seen as performers but as friends and team members,” he adds. “It is this emotional connection between humans and horses that makes CAVALLUNA so special.”
Masterminded by Emmy-nominated visionary Klaus Hillebrecht—who serves as the show's Director, Composer, and Author, the current touring production, Gate to the Otherworld, blends high-level horsemanship with heartwarming storytelling. The narrative follows the remarkable journey of Meerin, a young sorceress whose rare talent becomes both her greatest gift and her greatest burden.
“Drawn into a struggle against dark magic, she must navigate a world ruled by powerful enemies while confronting the fears that stand between her and her destiny, ” Mock-O’Hara explains.
At its core, the story asks a universal question: “When faced with uncertainty, can we find the strength to believe in ourselves?” It is this emotional through-line that transforms CAVALLUNA from a display of technical skill into an immersive theatrical experience.
Unlike conventional equestrian events, where performances are segmented into individual disciplines, CAVALLUNA integrates every artistic element from the outset.
“Right from the early stages of the show’s development, our creative director, choreographers, producer and horse trainers work closely together,” says Mock-O’Hara. “The equestrian artistry is therefore not created in isolation from the rest of the production, but forms part of the overall narrative from the very beginning.”
“Our aim is for the audience not to distinguish between dance, theatre and equestrian art, but to be completely immersed in the world of the story at all times,” he says.
Among the highlights is the legendary Hungarian Post, in which a rider stands astride two galloping horses while guiding several more in synchronised formation - a breathtaking demonstration of balance, trust and precision. Liberty performances, where horses move freely without reins or tack, showcase subtle communication between horse and rider through body language alone.
The production’s 54 horses represent a remarkable diversity of European breeds, each contributing its own character and visual identity to the stage.
“Our 54 horses come from various European countries and represent different breeds, each with their own unique strengths,” Mock-O’Hara explains. “Among them are majestic Friesians with long, wavy manes and jet-black fur, elegant Lusitanos from Portugal, fiery Andalusians from Spain, spirited Arabians and miniature ponies that bring charming and humorous moments to the show.”
Transporting 54 horses from Europe to Hong Kong will be a logistical feat, but Mock-O’Hara emphasises that welfare remains paramount.
“Animal welfare is a central part of our philosophy,” he says. “Our horses are never overworked and follow a schedule with clearly defined rest periods, veterinary care and individually tailored training plans. Each rider takes care of their own horse and knows what the animal needs.”
For the journey to Hong Kong, the company works with Cathay Cargo, the Official Equine Transport Partner. Utilizing their Boeing 747-800F freighters and specialist Cathay Live Animal solution, the horses will travel under the care of experienced international transport specialists and veterinary teams.
“Our horses are very experienced travellers and do not get nervous easily – after all, they don’t know that they are in an airplane; in fact, air travel usually provides calmer conditions than travel on the road,” he explains.
Having toured extensively across Europe, why bring CAVALLUNA to Asia now?
Mock-O’Hara explains that Europe’s rich equestrian tradition spans centuries, and Hong Kong’s audience have shown incredible appreciation for world-class theatrical entertainment.
“CAVALLUNA delivers this standard of European excellence through masterful artistry and magnificent cinematic spectacle,” he says.
Beyond spectacle, CAVALLUNA also aims to foster a deeper understanding of horses and equestrian culture.
“Through its stunning equestrian performances, the show highlights the intelligence, beauty and sensitivity of horses,” says Mock-O’Hara. “It offers an opportunity to learn about the trust, communication, and dedication involved in training them.”
Ultimately, he hopes Hong Kong audiences leave with more than memories of dazzling visuals.
“Beyond enjoying the breathtaking horsemanship, music and visual effects, they can connect with the story’s themes of courage, friendship, self-belief, and perseverance,” he says.