The world-famous Circus Krone, based in Munich, Germany, is the largest circus in Europe and the only one to occupy a permanent building (with seats for over 5,000 spectators). Along with fantastic displays of acrobatics, exotic animals, music, and comedy, the circus has always promoted classical equestrianism, first under Director Christel Sembach-Krone, and now her successor Jana Mandana Lacey-Krone continues the tradition.
Lacey-Krone has collaborated closely with TSB author and horse trainer Anja Beran for a number of years, so it only made sense to have one of Beran’s horses star in the show during the month of March. Beran’s stunning dun Lusitano stallion Ramses wowed crowds with his performances. But Beran’s intent was not to only demonstrate classical dressage movements (the exterior of the horse) but also to prove how her method of training according to classical principles cultivates manners, willingness, composure, and “sparkle” (the interior of the horse).
Ramses, bred from a famous Portuguese bullfighting line, performed happily, unruffled by the large crowds, applause, lighting effects, and dramatic music. He was the perfect gentleman!
If only we could all say as much about our own horses’ appearances in public!
Check out Anja Beran’s book CLASSICAL SCHOOLING WITH THE HORSE IN MIND and her DVDs ELEGANT DRESSAGE TRAINING 1, 2, and 3 at the TSB bookstore.
