GREEN & GLOVER: Up from Down Under

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"Rape as a means of warfare has been going on for centuries, and I don't know what we can do to stop it," she said.

As for sexual assaults in the United States, she says part of her agenda is to institute stricter sentences for sex offenders. When asked what she had in mind, she said, "I don't know, but people need to understand that rapists are career rapists."

Among her upcoming professional projects is the film "After.Life" with Liam Neeson, whose wife, actress Natasha Richardson, died in March after a skiing accident.

Miss Ricci, who called Mr. Neeson "a lovely man," said she plays a woman caught between life and death after a car accident. Mr. Neeson portrays a funeral director in the horror flick, which was shot before Miss Richardson's sudden death. Miss Ricci said Mr. Neeson "won't be doing press" when the movie makes its debut.

Horsin' around

The crew of "Cavalia," the Cirque du Soleil touring show celebrating the special relationship between horses and humans, has arrived. G2 caught up with the cast — including those with tails and four legs — Thursday for a behind-the-scenes sneak peak at the equine extravaganza, which opens Friday, with proceeds benefiting the Pentagon Memorial Fund.

The cast members, including artistic director Normand Latourelle, said they haven't had a chance to do much sightseeing around town because of the heavy practice schedule. Could they be polishing the act in hopes of attracting some distinguished guests?

We hear Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who will be in town next week, has been leaning on the Obama family — diplomatically, of course — to take in the show. After all, "Cavalia" is based in Quebec.

Mr. Latourelle intimated that invitations had been sent to the Obama girls, but said, "I don't know if they like horses," in a charming French accent.

At any rate, if the crew needs help finding local haunts, they have the perfect go-to guy in James Buchanan, a 20-something "Cavalia" rider from Alexandria who learned to ride on his grandfather's farm in Maryland.

We always appreciate seeing a local boy who makes good.

• To contact Stephanie Green or Elizabeth Glover, e-mail undercover@washingtontimes.com.