From Hollywood to London: Game of Thrones Stunt Horseman Brings Movie Magic to London International Horse Show
From the epic battle scenes of Game of Thrones to the action-packed world of Wonder Woman and the royal drama of The Crown, the Devil’s Horsemen have helped bring some of film and television’s most unforgettable equestrian moments to life. Now, audiences at London International Horse Show will have a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes of Hollywood’s equestrian action when Daniel Naprous, world-renowned stunt horseman and co-owner of the Devil’s Horsemen, takes centre stage for a thrilling Stunt Riding 101 Masterclass on Saturday 19 December.
Esme Higgs will be joining the Devil’s Horsemen, one of the world ‘s leading stunt teams, for the exciting Masterclass. Photo credit/This Esme Ltd, David Higgs
Daniel will be lifting the curtain on the fascinating world of equestrian stunt work, revealing some of the skills, secrets and techniques behind the action: how he teaches a horse to perform in the middle of a Hollywood battle, what it takes to pull off a stunt that looks terrifying on screen and just how much training goes into those few seconds of movie magic. And he won’t be doing it alone.
Joining him in the arena will be London International Horse Show Ambassador and equestrian content creator Esme Higgs, who will be swapping her usual riding disciplines for a crash course in Hollywood stunt riding. With experience across everything from Showjumping and Dressage to jousting and trick riding, Esme is no stranger to an equestrian challenge – but with Daniel calling the shots, anything could happen!
World-renowned stunt horseman Daniel Naprous will share his incredible knowledge and experience in the Stunt Riding 101 Masterclass on Saturday 19 December. Credit Daniel Naprous
One of the world’s leading equestrian stunt teams, the Devil’s Horsemen have spent decades training horses and riders for the big screen, creating everything from dramatic battle charges and high-speed chases to breathtaking trick riding and carefully choreographed falls. Their extraordinary work combines fearless athleticism, precision and, above all, an exceptional bond of trust between horse and rider.
Together with Esme, Daniel will take the audience behind the scenes of the stunt riding world in what promises to be a thrilling Masterclass designed to showcase the remarkable skills, preparation and trust required to perform at the highest level.
Esme said: “I’ve watched some of the incredible things the Devil’s Horsemen do in films and thought, how on earth do they do that? Well, now I’m going to find out! Dan is one of the best in the business, so it’s an amazing opportunity to learn from him. I’m excited, slightly nervous, and just hoping he doesn’t have anything too terrifying planned for me! I think the London audience is going to love seeing how all those Hollywood stunts actually work.”
Daniel is already a familiar face to London International Horse Show audiences, having previously demonstrated his remarkable Carriage Driving skills at the Show. This December, alongside his Masterclass appearance, he will also be competing in the FEI Driving World Cup™ in the International Arena, with a new team of horses making their indoor circuit debut.
Daniel said: “Our horses appear in some of the biggest films and television shows in the world, but people don’t often get to see what goes on behind the scenes. There’s so much more to stunt riding than they realise and we’re going to bring a bit of that Hollywood action to London. I’ve got a few ideas for what Esme might be doing – but I’m not giving too much away just yet!”
Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director, said: “The Devil’s Horsemen have been responsible for some truly extraordinary moments in film and television, and to have Daniel bringing that expertise to London is something very special. This is a fantastic opportunity for our audience to see the skill, bravery and horsemanship behind Hollywood’s greatest equestrian stunts. And with Esme getting involved, I think we’re in for a hugely entertaining Masterclass!”
The Stunt Riding 101 Masterclass is part of a packed programme of seven Masterclasses at London International Horse Show this December, featuring some of the biggest names in equestrian sport:
Thursday 17 – Dressage Masterclass presented by Richard Davison with guest presenter, Carl Hester
Friday 18 – Arena Eventing presented by Dickie Waygood joined by Ros Canter and Gemma Stevens
Saturday 19 – Stunt Riding 101 with Daniel Naprous and Esme Higgs
Saturday 19 – Perfecting Lines with Simon Grieve and Meg Elphick
Sunday 20 – Dog Agility presented by Anthony Clarke
Sunday 20 – Retraining of Racehorses presented by William Fox-Pitt
Monday 21 – Pippa’s Pony Club Rally presented by Pippa Funnell