French horses to step out for culture
Top equestrian school to perform shows in Al Ain fort
ABU DHABI // Thirty horses from one of France’s most prestigious equestrian academies will take part in performances in Al Ain as part of an Emirati-French cultural programme. The Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, the French embassy and Institut Francais will present the show featuring horsemen of the National Equestrian Academy of Versailles, in Al Jahili Fort on March 23, 25, 27 and 28. It will be choreographed by the acclaimed French horse trainer Bartabas.
“This series of shows, reflected in an equestrian choreography by a true master of equestrian art, in the iconic venue of Al Jahili Fort, is another milestone of our Emirati–French cultural programme,” said Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of TCA Abu Dhabi.
Michel Miraillet, French ambassador to the UAE , said his country was proud to present the National Equestrian Academy of Versailles, which is steeped in the French and Emirati tradition of horse training.
“This tradition will be encountering in March the Emiratis’ long-lasting relationship with horses, for an exceptional show in the heart of the Emirati nation,” he said.
“France and the UAE are both utterly committed to culture as a way to lead to peace and harmony.
“The Emirati-French cultural programme, dedicated to the celebration of the upcoming Louvre Abu Dhabi, has been thought out as a way to strengthen our relationship by presenting common passion and values to the public living in the UAE and across its borders.”
The choreography comprises more than 15 scenes punctuated by poetry.
The texts from 20th- century writers such as Pierre Boulez and Nuno Oliveira – the latter a Portuguese horse trainer who inspired riders all over the world – evoke the relationships between humanity and horses.