Lipizzaner Stallions

Saturday, April 16

Heads and Tails Above the Rest

The bond between a rider and a horse is truly a work of art. 'Dressage' is a term used to describe the unique relationship of two hearts and one mind. There is a talent to controlling and directing the Lipizzaner Stallions, the show horses of the equestrian world. A rider works with the horse to perfect its walk, trot and cantor between maneuvers. The “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions and their riders are trained professionals of equestrian art and will perform at the Erwin Center on Saturday, April 16.

Dressage can be thought of as the equivalent of ballet or aerobics with the difference being that horses are displaying the gracefulness of these human arts. The concept of dressage dates back 2,000 years ago to a Greek historian and military leader, Xenophon. He explained that if a horse is trained to carry itself with a certain presence, then the horse can display a joyous and magnificent beauty. Xenophon added that if the rider does not have a connection or bond with her or his horse, the animal will display no pleasure.

In addition to the concept of dressage, there are numerous other equestrian-specific terms that are intriguing to learn about. When the horse finds his tempo, leaps into the air, drawing forelegs under his chest at the height of elevation and kicks out violently with the hind legs, it is commonly referred to as “capriole”. The term “pirouette”, when used in relation to horses, does not differ much in relation to dancers. A horse does a pirouette by balancing on his hind legs and pivoting in a half or full circle before coming down on all four legs. Performing these and other amazing equestrian feats earned the “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions the name “Dancing White Stallions.”

Included in the performance at the Erwin Center is a segment called the "Airs Above the Ground”. Spectacular leaps and maneuvers, once used by riders in saddle to protect and defend themselves on the battlefield, will be performed as an equestrian work of art. The conclusion of the performance will feature the traditional Grand Quadrille, a military drill performed to music. Six to eight Lipizzaner Stallions with their riders exhibit maneuvers through the highest level of dressage.

These horses represent a great history and culture. The “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions are an authentic presentation of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna style, which is considered the Harvard of the equestrian world. These graceful and majestic horses performing a stunning equestrian ballet are a sight to see for the whole family.

Tickets for The “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions at the Frank Erwin Center Saturday, April 16 at 2PM & 7:30PM are $20.50 and $24.50 and are ON SALE NOW at all Texas Box Office Outlets (includes H-E-B stores in Austin, Bastrop, Bee Caves, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Round Rock, and San Marcos; Ft. Hood Bldg. #136 and Renaissance Records in Killeen), charge-by-phone at 512/477-6060 or 1-800-982-2386 or order on-line at TexasBoxOffice.com. THE FOLLOWING DISCOUNTS ARE AVAILABLE ON ALL TICKET PRICES. NO DOUBLE DISCOUNTS: $2 off juniors 12 and under and seniors 62 and over, $5 off for groups of 20 or more. Groups should call the Group Sales department at 512-471-7744. Convenience charges may apply. All information subject to change. The Frank Erwin Center is a smoke-free facility. Convenient parking is available within walking distance in nearby state and University lots. For more information, call 512/471-7744. uterwincenter.com.

FOR HORSE LOVERS!

Tack and Grooming Clinic
Saturday, April 16, 5:45PM

Harkening back to a time when the horse was a symbol of grace and majesty, the Lipizzaner Stallions are truly a great experience to be enjoyed by your group or organization. Come and experience 425 years of history through an equestrian work of art, an equine ballet not to be rivaled - the “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions.

Come with your group before the evening performance and learn more about these beautiful horses. Group Sales ticket holders may enter through the Red River doors at 5:30PM. At 7:30PM, this spectacular event begins - so prepare to have an amazing evening! Call 512-471-7744 and reserve your space today for this pre-show event.

REGISTER TO WIN

Four (4) tickets to the “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions.

To register, e-mail your first and last name, area code and phone number, and e-mail address to: winstalliontix@erwin.utexas.edu

One winner will receive four (4) tickets to the “World Famous” Lipizzaner Stallions coming to the Frank Erwin Center, Saturday, April 16.