Horsing around

Joanne Asman has been connected to the equestrian arts for nearly 35 years. Her love for Spanish horses and her dream to inform the public about them have culminated in the creation of the Fiesta of the Spanish Horse.

This year marks the ninth annual fiesta, a four-day event consisting of various exhibitions revolving around Spanish horses at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. The highlight of the horse show will be a Saturday night extravaganza boasting an array of riders, musicians, dancers and other entertainment.

Equestrians will be showcasing the strength and versatility of the Andalusian, Lusitano, Peruvian Paso, Paso Fino, Mangalara Marchador and other Spanish horses.

Making a special appearance at the Saturday night event is Asman's horse, Tuno IV, a 15-year-old Andalusian who has appeared on various TV and print campaigns and is also known as USC mascot Traveler. Various celebrities scheduled to appear at the extravaganza are Actress Leslie Charleson from "General Hospital," opera star Mara Baygulova and model Tatjana Patitz.

Breathing life into the fiesta has not been easy, but Asman brings a lot of experience to the job.

The Burbank resident is the owner and operator of her own entertainment and event planning company, Asman & Associates. Though the business handles all types of events, equestrian performances are her biggest passion, Asman said.

Asman's experience in the business, which she has been a part of since 1992, gives her confidence that the event will do well.

"It sold out the last three years," Asman said.

Though the event highlights the beauty and history of the horses, it was meant for more than that, she said.

"It was created to raise money for cancer research as well as to promote the Spanish horse," said Asman.

Profit from the fiesta has always been used to support cancer research. This year's net profit will be donated to the American Cancer Society, USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Roy and Patricia Disney Cancer Center, soon to begin construction in Burbank. The fiesta's philanthropic cause draws the support of many people, some of whom are cancer survivors themselves, she said.

Nancy Latta, a Burbank resident who has been raising and showing horses for 17 years, has been involved with the fiesta for six years.

Her husband is a cancer survivor who helps with various tasks during the event. Though he won't be riding during the event, he still shows his support.

"It's a very worthwhile project. Everyone who participates knows it's for a good cause," Latta said.

Three of Latta's horses, Kripton-Seni, Fabuloso-49 and Orgulloso-41, will be seen in an exhibition called Four Spanish Andalusian Stallions of the High Seas, which consists of a three-minute act to the theme of "Pirates of the Caribbean" during Saturday's extravaganza.