Rivka Veder

A native of New York, Rivka Veder has been involved in many facets of entertainment. She is a Hunter College graduate, receiving a B.A. in Film and Theatre. Rivka has studied under some of the best known coaches in the field, including JoAnna Beckson (acting) and Ingrid Saxon (voice). She has attended workshops at The Neighborhood Playhouse and other reputable acting conservatories. Some of her acting credits include Zooman and the Sign, and Across the Universe, as well as an independent short film entitled Blue Sky, which was part of the Cartegena International Film Festival (January 2008). She has also directed The House Painters, a play written by Robert Veder, and worked in production on Sex in The City. Rivka plays the part of Ellyon.

Tina Cristiani Veder

Tina was born into the famous Cristiani Brothers Circus. Her intense passion for horses was instilled in her at a very early age. Tina's keen knowledge of the horse and her innovative marketing skills has enabled her to establish and successfully run her business, Caballos de los Cristiani. Established in 1986, Caballos de los Cristiani is nationally regarded as a premier facility for the training and sale of quality bred Andalusian and Lusitano horses.

Bruno Gonzalez

In 1996 Bruno Gonzalez, a talented trainer from Spain, joined as a partner in Caballos de los Cristiani and established the training program which has grown into a nationally recognized curriculum for the improvement and training of Iberian horses and their riders. Breeders and owners from across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Brazil have enrolled horses in the program to be developed and trained by Bruno.

Carin Mei

Carin C. Mei was born and raised in Italy. She came to the United States in 1982 and graduated from New York University. She lived and worked in Manhattan for 14 years. Her first encounter with horses was back in her homeland as a young child riding the countryside on Haflingers. She learned about dressage as a teenager in Germany. About 12 years ago, life brought her to the Mohawk Valley. It is here that she has been able to actively pursue her passion for horses and riding. Two years ago she was invited to join the Board of Directors of The Root Farm. Carin gladly accepted. She believes deeply in the mission of the Root Farm and she considers herself lucky to have been given the opportunity to share her believe in the healing power of the horse and to support all special children and adults that come to the Root Farm.

JD Winslow

While always comfortable riding and being around horses, it was not until the age of 18 that he was introduced to circus style vaulting and bareback riding. This led to a full time circus career lasting over a decade. Constant touring, town after town, mile after mile takes a toll on one.
Today JD Winslow gives unprecedented displays of his Artistic Riding. Never using any harness or surcingles, he adjusts his riding to accommodate the horses' needs. This can be most difficult, especially at large public events. Unfortunately, the general public does not appreciate the lack of harness, with regards to controlling the horse, and the training that this takes. Giving demonstrations and clinics for various equestrian groups has been very rewarding. It is common practice for JD to remove the bridle and perform freestyle vaulting as the horse trots at liberty, controlled by vocal command alone!

Alice Root

Alice Root, PhD, is the founding director of The Root Farm, center for equine-assisted therapy, in Verona, NY. She has spent a lifetime raising and training four children, plus many horses, donkeys, mules, and dogs. Continuing to live with her husband on their farm in Vernon Center, she is dedicated to a belief in the profoundly therapeutic relationship between humans and animals.

Irina Stager

Irina Stager is a senior at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida. She is majoring in Human Development. Irina grew up in Maine and has ridden horses since she was 9 years old. She is the proud owner of two pure Spanish Andalusians, Copernico and Lazaro, who are in training with Caballos de los Cristiani. She will be riding Copernico as the Medieval Lady in tonight's performance.