Famous Stallions to Perform at Patriot Center

By Broadside Staff Writer Kristen White

The world famous Lipizzaner Stallions have performed all over the world, including North America, South America, Great Britain, Europe and Australia. Now, they’re coming to perform at the Patriot Center on Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There are 12 to 14 stallions in this particular showcase, with Troy Tinker acting as the master of ceremonies and Gary Lashinsky behind the show as the producer, according to the company’s Web site.

In 1945, during World War II, General George S. Patton rescued the Lipizzaner Stallions from an allied attack in Vienna, Austria. Since the horses’ home at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna was clearly not safe enough, General Patton established the horses as wards of the United States Army until they could be returned safely. The horses were moved again from another Russian attack, but their beauty and ongoing history saved them once again from destruction. The Lipizzaner Stallions are a great historical breed and have been cared for and protected throughout their long heritage. A portion of the Lipizzaner Stallions’ history is showcased in the classic Walt Disney movie, Miracle of the White Stallions.

The dressage of the Lipizzaner Stallions is taken very seriously to make the horse match its rider. Xenophon, who was a strategic military leader and historian in ancient Greece said, "If the rider is not in harmony with the nature of the animal, then it will perform as a burden with no display of pleasure." This fact is one in which the Lipizzaner Stallions and riders stand by at all times.

The riders’ strong relationship with the horses is a beauty in itself and makes a strong performance shine through.
The horses’ slick maneuvers, jumps and beauty have entranced audiences from around the world. In their segment “Airs Above the Ground,” the horses show the onlookers their skillful jumps and smooth transitions.

The stallion’s graceful techniques have been passed down for 400 years, when the animals were first bred to have certain qualities. Along with the Lipizzaner Breed, their ancestral forefather, the Andalusian of ancient Spain, join the show for a unique act of Spanish traditions to showcase the Grand Prix Olympic level dressage.

The Lipizzaner Stallions are known as symbols of grace and majesty and this anniversary tour takes the audience back to that time. The performance results in a great spectacle in which six to eight Lipizzaner Stallions in intricate dressage will exhibit maneuvers in a ballet-like dance.

The beauty and intelligence of these horses can clearly be seen through their light marches and trots. Tickets are on sale right now at the Patriot Center with prices starting at $25.50. Merchandise, including hats, tour sweatshirts and T-shirts, plush stuffed animals, programs, tour blankets, tote bags and sterling silver pendants can be bought at the time of the performance or on the Web site at http://www.lipizzaner.com.