The usual Sunday show was given an African flair for the children of the Yenzani Children’s Home, a Midrand-based shelter which houses abused, abandoned and orphaned boys and girls.
Vanessa Hale, one of the Yenzani organisers of special events such as the Sunday show, told how important it is for these children to interact with animals.
“The children have equine therapy once a week at two different stables where they spend time with traumatised horses. Therapy like this is mutually beneficial. The children form a special bond with the horses. This helps them build confidence and teaches the children that they aren’t the only ones who haven’t had such a good start in life,” she said.
These exquisite equines are born either black or brown and only turn to the white they are so well known for from about the age of nine. The horses usually live well into their 20s, with some making it into their early 30s.
Lipizzaner breeding is considered an art, according to the master of ceremonies during the show. There are eight stallion lines and a smattering of mare lines from which breeders can choose. There are an estimated 4 000 Lipizzaners worldwide, and the South African Lipizzaners have earned the honour of being the only performing Lipizzaners outside of Vienna to be recognised by and affiliated to the Spanish Riding School. According to their website, the South African Lipizzaners have maintained a close association with the Spanish Riding School to this day.
The horses’ movements during performance are all adapted from movements Lipizzaners would naturally make in the wild. In many ways, their movements are a form of social expression.
Yenzani Children’s Home was presented with a cheque after the SA Lipizzaner ballet, and the children were called to stand next to the horses, much to their delight.
“Many of these children aren’t taught how to take care of something outside of them,” said Hale.
“We have a very happy relationship with the Lipizzaner centre; the ways they help us are amazing. We are truly grateful for their contributions.”
The Lipizzaner horses perform every Sunday from 10:30am. Tickets can be purchased at Computicket, or bought at the door. There are no annual sponsors for these majestic equines.
Details: If you’re looking for details regarding the Lipizzaners, or if you would like to sponsor a horse, visit: www.lipizzaners.co.za
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