Cavalia

Todays name comes from the show (and Quebec based company) Cavalia, which is currently performing here in Australia. The full name of the show is 'Cavalia, A Magical Encounter Between Human and Horse'.  the show is described as "a spectacular and moving tribute to the relationship between human and horses throughout history, a dream of freedom, cooperation and harmony. In a fairy tale setting filled with poetry and emotion, the show innovatively integrates acrobatics, dance, aerial stunts, live music and equestrian arts. Under the white Big Top, a 50-metre stage permits the horses to express themselves in all their splendour, nobility and strength".

Although I haven't seen it, the ads and posters look fantastic. And every time I see them, I think to myself "That would make a gorgeous name".

Pronounced Cah-VAH-lee-ah, apparently the word was coined by creative director Normand Latourelle (creator of Cirque du Soleil) and is based on the French word cheval meaning 'horse'. This gives the name Cavalia the same base as better known words cavalcade and cavalier. However the "lia" ending puts it in similar company to girly favourites such as Amelia, Cecilia, Cordelia, Julia, Natalia, Ophelia and Talia.

I also feel like it has a rather uplifting feel to it, maybe because it shares similar sounds with the words carnival. It has quite a pretty sound and would be a unique yet not overly contrived or manufactured choice. It hasn't charted yet so is currently extremely rare - a child with this name would never be one of several at their school.

The horse association may be off-putting for some, but horses are generally seen to be strong, intelligent, noble and elegant creatures. There are definitely less attractive animals and birds to be associated with. Considering the special relationship and connection that many people have with horses, I wouldn't be surprised if we eventually see Cavalia worn by young girls in the future.