History
The history of the Quadrille is quite rich, originating from the 16th Century Royal Courts of Europe. Elaborate horse performances for festive occasions were the entertainment of the times and the quadrille was always a featured act. Military cavalries demonstrated these precision riding drills for four, six, eight, or as many as twelve horses. These drills, often performed in elaborate dress, demonstrated the nobility, strength, and beauty of the horses and rider.

Noble Horse Theatre recreates this majestic exhibition at Chicago's last remaining riding hall. Quadrille continues to exhibit the extraordinary relationship between horse and rider.

Quadrilles were presented in indoor stadiums called coliseums or hippodromes. The term hippodrome comes from the word hippodramas, which means melodrama on horseback. In northern climates, hippodromes were built as centers for year round entertainment.


Artist's Rendering of 18th Century Riding Hall

The Noble Horse has continued the tradition of the hippodrome performances by demonstrating all types of horse acts to entertain and educate the public.

The Noble Horse's historical theatre is located inside an 1872 hippodrome. It is the last remaining structure of its kind in Chicago and the oldest active hippodrome in the United States. This historical building was renovated in 2000 and is located just north of the Chicago's Magnificent Mile, in Old Town. The theatre is climate controlled, handicapped accessible, and offers matinee and evening horse shows.