Cavalluna, an equestrian performance that has attracted over nine million viewers across more than 30 European cities, is set to launch in Hong Kong this September. The show, titled "Cavalluna – Gate to the Otherworld," will take place at the Kai Tak Arena from September 8 to 13, offering audiences a blend of horse riding, acrobatics, music, and storytelling.
Produced by Andreas Eckert and written, composed, and directed by Klaus Hillebrecht—an Emmy-nominated composer known for his work with National Geographic—the production revolves around the story of Meerin, a young sorceress who can bring drawings to life. Her talent leads to exile and capture by the warlock Röndrup and his niece. Throughout the performance, Meerin faces dark forces and her own inner struggles to regain her magical abilities.
The event is presented exclusively in Hong Kong by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, which also serves as the cultural host. The Club manages the city’s horse-racing venues and supports various equine-related initiatives, including the recent transformation of Penfold Park at Sha Tin Racecourse into "Pony World." This facility provides children aged three to fourteen with opportunities for supervised pony rides and horsemanship education.
A notable element of the show is the inclusion of ponies, uncommon in equestrian entertainments due to their training challenges, with two breeds featured here. One breed measures just 65 centimeters in height. In total, Cavalluna will showcase eight different horse breeds on stage, including Arabians from the Middle East; Friesians and Dutch Warmbloods from the Netherlands; Pura Raza Española and Menorquín from Spain; Lusitanos from Portugal; Welsh ponies from Wales; and Mini Shetland ponies from Scotland.
Transporting the 54 horses to Hong Kong involves a specialized operation led by Cathy Cargo, using a Boeing 747-800F equipped with temperature-controlled compartments and in-flight ventilation. The animals are handled by specialists throughout the journey to ensure their comfort and safety.
The performance highlights a variety of equestrian skills, from technically demanding riding maneuvers to choreographed dancing sequences. One notable act is the Hungarian Post, in which a single rider stands on two galloping horses while directing several others, demonstrating both power and precision.
Johannes Mock-O’Hara, CEO of Appassionata World—the Berlin-based entertainment company behind Cavalluna—expressed enthusiasm about the show’s Hong Kong debut, calling it a “breathtaking compilation” and “a gift” to audiences and performers alike.
Tickets for Cavalluna – Gate to the Otherworld are available starting at HK$395 through the city’s official ticketing platform. The event is being promoted as a family-friendly experience, combining artistry and equestrian skill in a unique theatrical setting.