Spanish Riding School tour returns to the UK

The Spanish Riding School of Vienna celebrates its 450th anniversary this year and to celebrate it is returning to the UK in November 2016 for six new shows.

‘Rare and exceptional’

The world’s oldest and most famous equestrian academy will perform at Wembley SEE Arena and Birmingham’s BarclayArena. Hosted by TV presenter and British Dressage Ambassador Nicki Chapman, the events will also feature special guests.

“The Spanish Riding School of Vienna tours are rare and exceptional,” said Nicky. “I’ve witnessed first hand these graceful horses thrilling crowds with their astonishing combination of elegance and power.

“This is an extraordinary, once in a lifetime opportunity to witness these most celebrated, world renowned horses performing in the UK during their momentous 450th anniversary.”

Gravity-defying leap

Named an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2010, the school is the only place in the world where classical equestrian skills are still practiced in their original form.

All of their famous in-hand work and movements above the ground will be performed at the shows, including the gravity-defying leap – known as the Capriole – and the Courbette, where the horse raises tucks up his forelegs and jumps forward in a series of‘hops’.

The Lipizzanas date back to the 16th century, and were developed by the Habsburg monarchy. The breed is a cross between Spanish, Arabic and Berber horses. There are less then 3,000 of them worldwide and 70 are trained at the Spanish Riding School at any one time.

Tour Dates

Friday11November 2016: The SEE Arena,Wembley, 7.30pm

Saturday12November 2016: The SEE Arena,Wembley, 7.30pm

Sunday 13November 2016: The SEE Arena,Wembley,3pm

Friday18November 2016: BarclayArena Birmingham, 7.30pm

Saturday 19November 2016: Barclaycard Arena Birmingham, 7.30pm

Sunday 20November 2016: Barclaycard Arena Birmingham, 3pm

Tickets are available now at Live Nation, the Spanish Riding School or Ticket Master. Prices start at £27.50.