Cirque Ma’Ceo Brings European-Style Equestrian Circus to Del Mar This Fall
North County is no stranger to equestrian culture, and this fall, Del Mar is getting an up-close look at horsemanship elevated to theatrical art with Cirque Ma’Ceo.
Cirque Ma’Ceo is a European-style equestrian circus. This year, the circus is in San Diego for “The Year of the Horse,” a 90-minute traveling spectacle produced by Cavallo Equestrian Arts, at the Horsepark attached to the Del Mar Racetrack. The show is schedule to run from Friday, Oct. 30 through Sunday, Nov. 22.
Created and directed by ninth-generation equestrian acrobat Olissio Zoppe, the show blends centuries-old European circus tradition with modern artistry. Unlike sprawling arena productions, the intimate Big Top puts every seat close enough to the action to feel the breeze, and even catch a bit of sand as horses gallop past.
The production stars Friesians, Andalusians, Nokotas, the exceptionally rare Akhal-Teke, and a charismatic miniature stallion with larger-than-life presence. Set to dramatic lighting and Spanish guitar music, the performance will include everything from high-speed bareback trick riding to quieter and more subtle routines. Alongside the horsemanship, Cirque Ma’Ceo will also feature daring fire-spinning, aerial silk, and trapeze acts.
Equine enthusiasts will also appreciate the production’s reputation for animal welfare. Across the country, reviewers and industry insiders consistently praise how healthy, groomed, and deeply respected the horses are.
General admission for the circus start around $20, with ringside VIP seats around $40. With a Stable Tour add-on, guests can get a behind-the-scenes look at the stables, pet the horses, and meet the multi-generational circus families.
Because the tour relies mostly on word-of-mouth rather than heavy local advertising, shows can sneak up quickly. You can purchase tickets at this link.
Media credit: Images courtesy of cirquemaceo.com
Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
