Water for Elephants is currently running at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway and what a delight it is! Nominated for seven Tonys and winner of four Drama Desk Awards, it is a dazzling production that combines acrobatics, dance, song, and puppetry, along with a story that tugs at the heartstrings.
Based on Sara Gruen’s beloved 2006 novel, the musical’s book is crafted by Tony-nominated Rick Elice, while the music and lyrics come from the talented PigPen Theatre Co.
Familiar with the book or the 2011 film? Great! However, enjoyment of the show doesn’t depend on knowing the story. In fact, after seeing the musical, you will want to both read the book and watch the movie again. Or better still – just see the musical over and over! You’ll find different things to focus on every time.
This new theatre version is exhilarating, with a captivating story, excellent music, and amazing, super-talented performers.
The story is told from the point of view of an elderly man, Mr. Jankowski (Gregg Edelman) who has taken a day off from living in his nursing home to visit a traveling circus. It’s there we learn that decades ago, after he lost his parents, the younger Jankowski (Grant Gustin) came upon a circus train and asked to get a day’s work.
Before he knows it, he is the resident veterinary doctor—never mind that he never finished his studies. He recounts that his late father was a veterinarian, and during his childhood, Jacob worked by his dad’s side, which gave him plenty of hands-on experience.
As our elderly hero continues reminiscing, we’re swept back to his past where he meets up with all the vibrant and quirky characters from the old-time Benzini Brothers Circus.
He falls in love with leading lady, Marlena (Isabelle McCalla), who is the stunning rider atop the circus’s main act, a majestic Liberty horse. But alas, Marlena is married, and Silver Star is hurt. In a beautiful sequence, we see the last moments of the magnificent steed, portrayed by Antoine Boissereau, in an elegant ballet with arial silks.
The young Jankowski meets all the other rough and tumble members of the circus – the so-called kinkers – including the dangerous roustabout, Wade (Wade McCollum), a short sarcastic clown, Walter (Joe De Paul), an elderly ill man, Camel (Stan Brown), and a sexy cooch dancer, Barbara (Sara Gettelfinger).
And what would any big top be without a charismatic ringmaster – in this case, the villainous August (Paul Alexander Nolan), to whom Marlena is married.
All the ensemble numbers are incredible. Imagine Cirque du Soleil fused with Broadway magic. Gymnasts, rope dancers, jugglers and tumblers swirl around in sumptuous costumes, creating a visual feast that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Yet, it’s the narrative that gets us truly involved in Water for Elephants. The storytelling is wonderfully imaginative and creative, and the plot is moving and meaningful. And oh, when the elephant makes her appearance – it’s a mesmerizing sight!
Most of the first act, we just see the elephant Rosie in parts: her floppy ears… her trunk… her legs…. and then all of her in big bold beauty. Spoiler alert – Rosie is a huge, resplendent puppet – and when she trundles onstage and bats her eyes – you are smitten!
Rosie isn’t easy to train, though – and that’s part of the tale. We’re drawn into her life by the man who trains her, the woman who rides her – and the nefarious ringmaster who taunts and sometimes hurts her.
All the actors, singers, dancers, and acrobats deliver stellar performances that are truly top-notch. Director Jessica Stone was nominated for a Tony for her work, as were the choreographers, Jesse Robb and Shana Carroll.
Water for Elephants offers more than a traditional musical and more than a circus – it’s a whirlwind of emotions—charming, poignant, and utterly breathtaking.
I can easily see Water for Elephants not just lighting up Broadway, but also making waves on tour… or even as a Las Vegas staple! With its combination of singing, dancing, and phenomenal acrobatics, it would be a perfect fit for the city of extravagance.
What can I say? I loved this production and think you will, too! Anyone heading to New York should put Water for Elephants at the very top of their list of must-sees! It’s live theatre at its best… and a veritable trunkful of excitement and joy!
Water for Elephants the Musical
Imperial Theatre, 249 W 45th Street, New York, NY 10036
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