Homecoming for one 'Cavalia' performer

TAMPA - The equestrian spectacular, "Cavalia," now playing at the Florida State Fairgrounds is a homecoming of sorts for one of its star performers. Sylvia Zerbini, who orchestrates the moving "Grande Liberte," in the show, was born and raised in Sarasota.

"It's just a good feeling to be able to come home and show all my friends and family what I've accomplished and my passion for what I do," said Zerbini.

Zerbini's passion for horses started at a very early age. Born to circus parents, she's a ninth generation performer, who followed in her mother's footsteps and mastered the trapeze. But she always knew her first love was horses.

"I knew exactly what I wanted. I was going to be a great trapeze artist and I was going to do whatever I could with my horses and that's what I've accomplished,” she said. “To present it here at Cavalia is like a dream come true."

On the road, she travels with 16 horses, most of them Arabians, known for their beauty and intelligence.

"They really enjoy performing. They love attention. They love showing off. They love being stars," said Zerbini.

She works with them at liberty, meaning no halters, bridles or saddles. Just words, whistles and touch. Trust and respect are at the heart of what she does.

"Horses, I find, will do pretty much anything for you if they trust you. What I've created is like a natural herd. So when they come out and they're like mingling with one another, when I come out, I'm the dominant horse. I'm the alpha horse."

It all comes together under the big top in a unique demonstration of the special bond between humans and horses.

MORE INFO: Cavalia.net