Monday, December 24, 2007

In Memory of Matt Zoppe

I just returned from my Christmas vacation with my husbands family and was floored. On December 22, 2007 a talented performer, wonderful person and a good friend's life ended too soon. Matt Zamperla Zoppe was 5th generation circus and a true performer. We watched Matt and his brothers perform marvelously at the Circus, Cheval Theatre, Dixie Stampede and at Arabian Nights Dinner Theater. My brother and I featured the Zoppe family in a pilot we shot called "Extreme Horsemen". We brought together the most talented bareback riders under one roof. Matt and his family showed us why they are the best of the best. We experienced the magic of the Zoppe family as they practiced and performed. This is a sad day to know Matt is gone from this earth. He will be missed by everyone. Our hearts go out to Diana, his daughter Angelica, his family and friends. Below is a few pictures of Matt as we will always remember him. God Bless.


Here is Matt with his brother, Olissio.
Here is the Zoppe family performing at Arabian Nights. Here is Matt and Olissio along with Timi Loyal, Christine Drentwett, Joanne Mintel and other talented bareback riders during our "Extreme Horsemen" shoot.

Here is Matt alongside my brother, Tommie. We will miss you Matt.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

He will be missed by the patrons at the Florida Renaissance Festival, where Cavallo Equestrian Arts is scheduled to perform in Feb-Mar. Matt will be missed this year by both staff and patrons. Thank you for this tribute.

Anonymous said...

Matt was spectacular. I'll never forget the way he was able to skillfully work a crowd, nor the way he back flipped of a horses. In the time I knew him he was a amazing performer and a great friend.

He will be missed.

Tommie Turvey performs with Pokerjoe