Volunteers welcomed for Equine Affaire demonstration and “celebration” of the American Saddlebred
Friday, August 5, 2005
Lexington, Kentucky – The American Saddlebred breed is hoping to make a big impression on the tens of thousands of people who will be attending Equine Affaire in Louisville Friday, September 16 through Sunday, September 18.
However, the degree of success will be determined by the amount of enthusiastic volunteers willing to devote their time to promote the American Saddlebred.
At 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday in Broadbent Arena during Equine Affaire, Pfizer Fantasia, a unique equine musical revue, will feature an exciting line-up of professional equestrian performers, outstanding equestrians and champion horses choreographed to a wide variety of musical styles.
During the performance, “The Celebration of the American Saddlebred” will also take place, which is a historical rendition of the American Saddlebred with mounted riders and drivers performing patterns to music. Volunteers are welcomed to participate in the Saddlebred showcase. The roles needed for the performance are Civil War era, side saddle, wagon, western, pleasure, park, hunt seat and dressage, as well as high performance five-gaited, three-gaited and fine harness.
Elizabeth Shatner, who is an American Saddlebred World’s Champion rider, holds seven judges cards and a former trainer, as well as one of the main coordinators of the demonstration, said the best horses are needed to make the biggest impression.
“We need horses, rider and driver combinations that are mannerly, able to perform with commotion, music, lights and other unforeseen occurrences,” Shatner said.
She added everyone must be able to perform simple patterns and have time to rehearse at home.
“I’m hoping to have a meeting with all of the participants at the World’s Championship Horse Show in Louisville after the ASHA Auction, Thursday, August 24 at the Executive West,” Shatner said. “We want to take a walk through Broadbent Arena to get a good feeling of the complex.”
To volunteer riding and driving experience and horses, please send your audition tapes and biographies to Elizabeth Shatner, 3674 Berry Drive, Studio City, CA, 91604. Or e-mail the materials to Shatner at ejams@adelphia.net or chris@williamshatner.com. For additional information contact Shatner by calling (818) 509-2290.
In addition to the performances, the American Saddlebred Horse Association will be on hand with promotional materials. Volunteers are also welcomed to staff the booth. To volunteer time, please contact Matthew Williams, ASHA development manager, by calling (859) 259-2742, ext. 348 or e-mail matthew@asha.net.
Setup and the gathering of all of the participants will take place Thursday, September 15 the day before Equine Affaire begins. Stall fees are free and Shatner said they are looking for professional horse transporters to volunteer their services for this event as well.
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