Water for Elephants Touring Reviews

The 2024 musical, which was nominated for seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, tells the story of young Jacob Jankowski who, after experiencing a family tragedy, moves on to find a new life with a traveling circus during the Great Depression of ...

The 2024 musical, which was nominated for seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, tells the story of young Jacob Jankowski who, after experiencing a family tragedy, moves on to find a new life with a traveling circus during the Great Depression of the 1930s. The show features exciting circus acrobatics, original music, and intricate puppetry to tell its tale of love and personal survival.

“Water For Elephants” illustrates the heavy physical and emotional toll on the characters as they experience the exploitation and cruelty of early 20th century circus life, however that life also provides them with a home and a sense of belonging...

“Water For Elephants” illustrates the heavy physical and emotional toll on the characters as they experience the exploitation and cruelty of early 20th century circus life, however that life also provides them with a home and a sense of belonging to a community. Now, as then, strength and resilience are needed to face and endure huge challenges through the collective support of shared experience.

There’s everything we want and more in a dramatic story: compelling characters, lively action, all kinds of complications and strong desires, romance, violence, and comic relief—with fantastic movement and sometimes stark contrasts between the wo...

There’s everything we want and more in a dramatic story: compelling characters, lively action, all kinds of complications and strong desires, romance, violence, and comic relief—with fantastic movement and sometimes stark contrasts between the world of performance, in the circus tent, and the dramas playing out behind the scenes.

The standout of the show for me lies in the staging. The acrobatics and aerial work are a sight to behold. Stunts come quickly and often, and the audience (myself included) were in awe of a lot of the feats achieved. Jessica Stone’s original direct...

The standout of the show for me lies in the staging. The acrobatics and aerial work are a sight to behold. Stunts come quickly and often, and the audience (myself included) were in awe of a lot of the feats achieved. Jessica Stone’s original direction is also really phenomenal. She takes what could be a paint-by-numbers musical and injects innovative soul into every moment, giving the show distinct character.

And the puppeteer animals? Absolute beauty. Crafted with such grace and operated with such soul, they transcended mechanics and became living, breathing characters. They moved with such grace and emotion that you forgot they weren’t real. The horse...

And the puppeteer animals? Absolute beauty. Crafted with such grace and operated with such soul, they transcended mechanics and became living, breathing characters. They moved with such grace and emotion that you forgot they weren’t real. The horse (Yves Artieres), in particular, was unforgettable. The actor didn’t just operate the puppet—he became the horse. Every flick of the tail, every tremble of muscle, every glance was so heartbreakingly real that when a sad scene came to pass, tears welled in my eyes. It was devastating and beautiful.

This cast (non-Equity though you’d never ever know it) walks that tightrope, performing with bravura, singing with crystalline precision and thunderous boom — somehow making it all less overwhelmingly sad through their collective charisma, the de...

This cast (non-Equity though you’d never ever know it) walks that tightrope, performing with bravura, singing with crystalline precision and thunderous boom — somehow making it all less overwhelmingly sad through their collective charisma, the desperation and cruelty dialed down just enough to keep the edge, the cut.

Under the direction of Ryan Emmons, who was an associate to Jessica Stone on the Broadway production, he pulls off such imaginative staging. The circus work designed by Shana Carroll comes off as stunning as does her choreography with Jesse Robb. Bra...

Under the direction of Ryan Emmons, who was an associate to Jessica Stone on the Broadway production, he pulls off such imaginative staging. The circus work designed by Shana Carroll comes off as stunning as does her choreography with Jesse Robb. Bradley King’s lighting is incredible. There’s very colorful costumes designed by David I. Reynoso. Although the puppets for all the animals are so impressive to behold. Designers Camille Labarre, Rat Wetmore, & JR Goodman truly deserve all the credit for that. Several members of the cast happen to have background working in the circus or in some cases, Cirque du Soleil. It really shows as their experience is put to good use in all the circus sequences.

Ultimately, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is a thoroughly entertaining night at the circus theatre, packed with impressive artistry, strong performances, and a score full of catchy numbers like “Easy,” “Zostan,” and “Squeaky Wheel.” It balances spe...

Ultimately, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is a thoroughly entertaining night at the circus theatre, packed with impressive artistry, strong performances, and a score full of catchy numbers like “Easy,” “Zostan,” and “Squeaky Wheel.” It balances spectacle with heart, delivering a show that’s both crowd-pleasing and emotionally grounded. If you’re looking for a good time under the big top, this production delivers. But get your tickets now, the train takes this show out of town after Sunday.

Admittedly, I didn't think all the elements meshed well together, but individually these elements were pretty incredible. The acrobatic components to the show were simply outstanding and dare I say, death defying. The puppetry was, in fact, a great c...

Admittedly, I didn't think all the elements meshed well together, but individually these elements were pretty incredible. The acrobatic components to the show were simply outstanding and dare I say, death defying. The puppetry was, in fact, a great complement to the acrobatics especially with regard to the presentation of Silver Star the Horse (portrayed by Yves Artieres) and Rosie the Elephant (portrayed by Ella Huestis, Bradley Parrish, John Neurohr, Carl Robinett, and Grant Huneycutt). My only real complaint, though, is that the elephant puppetry isn't fully introduced at the time Rosie comes into the show - I think we can afford to see her sooner instead of the finale of Act One.

The most remarkable part of the show is the circus. Joining the talented singers and dancers from the Broadway stage are aerialists who swing on hoops and glide through the air on silks suspended from the ceiling. Acrobats tumble and fly across the s...

The most remarkable part of the show is the circus. Joining the talented singers and dancers from the Broadway stage are aerialists who swing on hoops and glide through the air on silks suspended from the ceiling. Acrobats tumble and fly across the stage, sometimes catching each other in mid-air and other times performing daring feats to create a spectacle one would expect from a circus.

What sets this adaptation apart is its collaboration with the visionary PigPen Theatre Company. Known for their “folk-noir” storytelling and organic puppetry, PigPen’s influence provides the musical’s rhythmic and soulful backbone. This isn�...

What sets this adaptation apart is its collaboration with the visionary PigPen Theatre Company. Known for their “folk-noir” storytelling and organic puppetry, PigPen’s influence provides the musical’s rhythmic and soulful backbone. This isn’t just a circus; it is a memory play where the ensemble’s movement and the ingenuity of the design create a visceral sense of wonder.

What makes it all work is that underneath the spectacle, it still feels human. The tricks are exciting, the animals are amazing, but it never loses that scrappy, slightly chaotic circus energy. It’s the kind of show where you leave thinking about h...

What makes it all work is that underneath the spectacle, it still feels human. The tricks are exciting, the animals are amazing, but it never loses that scrappy, slightly chaotic circus energy. It’s the kind of show where you leave thinking about how they pulled that off — and also realizing you were way more emotionally invested than you expected to be.

But all of that eye candy comes at a cost. With so much to look at, the storytelling in the music often gets lost, and it can be difficult to clock what the lyrics are trying to convey. The show is more effective as a musical when it takes a beat to ...

But all of that eye candy comes at a cost. With so much to look at, the storytelling in the music often gets lost, and it can be difficult to clock what the lyrics are trying to convey. The show is more effective as a musical when it takes a beat to quiet down and let the music breathe and the emotion come through.

Were I to evaluate each of those elements–the quiet story, the emotion-centric music and the high-flying acrobatics–individually, I could see myself agreeing with those critics who found “Water for Elephants” wanting. Yet, when evaluating the...

Were I to evaluate each of those elements–the quiet story, the emotion-centric music and the high-flying acrobatics–individually, I could see myself agreeing with those critics who found “Water for Elephants” wanting. Yet, when evaluating the pieces that make up the whole–as a whole–there is no denying that these elements coalesce into a dazzling production.

Review: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS at Proctors Image WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is dazzling audiences with extraordinary theatrics, creative visual concepts, and emotional moments. Adapted from the New York Times bestselling novel, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS has...

Review: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS at Proctors Image WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is dazzling audiences with extraordinary theatrics, creative visual concepts, and emotional moments. Adapted from the New York Times bestselling novel, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS has a book written by Rick Elice, and features a score by PigPen Theatre Co. The show is set during the Great Depression, and follows Jacob Jankowski, a veterinary student who has lost everything dear to him. With nowhere to go, he hops on the train of a traveling circus. An elderly Mr. Jankowski recalls these memories from the nursing home, with them resurfacing as the circus comes to town. He reminisces on finding a home, and love, on the road with the Benzini Brothers’ Most Spectacular Show on Earth circus group. WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is a story of forbidden love, the glamour and dark underbelly of the circus, found family, and above all else, imagination. LATEST NEWS BroadwayWorld My Shows is Now Part of the New & Improved App Franklin Stage Company Celebrates 30 Years Of Admission-Free Theater In Historic Catskills Venue Adirondack Theatre Festival Launches ATF For ALL Initiative Around The BroadwayWorld: Top News, Reviews, Interviews & More from March 2026 logo 00:01 01:11 Video: Mark Ballas and Whitney Leavitt Take First Bows... Video: CHICAGO Video: Whitney Leavitt Sets Up a Surprise Proposal... Video: CHICAGO Video: Gilbert Domally Is Crossing the Country as... Review: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS at Proctors Image The Cast of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade Mr. Jankowski is portrayed by Robert Tully, and he does well in this role. He was charming, and made the difference between modern conversations and the recalling of memories clear to the audience. His younger self, Jacob Jankowski, is typically played by Zachary Keller, but was instead played by cast swing, Andrew Meier. He was successful bringing forth that charming quality. His presence was strong throughout the performance, but he was exceptional during the act two number, “Go Home” where he is caught between a dream sequence and reality. This is a huge moment for his character, with a major decision at hand, and Meier executes this flawlessly. Review: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS at Proctors Image Zachary Keller, Connor Sullivan, Helen Krushinski, and the Cast of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade Connor Sullivan doubles as August/Charlie. Sullivan is exceptional as August, the ringmaster. He brings a theatrical and lively performance when the character is performing with the circus, and easily turns into a dark, manipulative individual in some of the more intimate and intense moments. Sullivan’s other character, Charlie is seen in the modern setting with Mr. Jankowski, and he carries a warm, almost nurturing quality. This doubling makes the villainous moments with August even more impactful and demonstrates great range. Sullivan’s theatrical moments as the ringmaster version of August have the same flair as Billy Flynn in CHICAGO, so you can imagine my delight when seeing that role listed in his bio. Review: WATER FOR ELEPHANTS at Proctors Image Helen Krushinski as Marlena, Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade The standout vocal performance comes from Helen Krushinski as Marlena/June. Marlena is the wife of August, and Jacob’s forbidden lover. She is a talented equestrian, and the star performer in the circus. Krushinski’s vocal stylings are unmatched. The moment between Marlena and her horse, Silver Star, played by Yves Artières, where she sings “Easy” to calm the animal is tender and heart-filled. Krushinski’s voice is angelic, with a perfect balance between rich, smooth qualities and light, melodic decoration. Her portrayal of Marlena is warm and dazzling, and she is easily a must-see performer.

Perhaps the greatest triumph is the way “Water for Elephants” integrates circus arts, as designed by Shana Carroll, co-founder of the Montreal-based circus company The 7 Fingers. Sometimes, it is to weave high-flying acrobatic feats into Jesse Ro...

Perhaps the greatest triumph is the way “Water for Elephants” integrates circus arts, as designed by Shana Carroll, co-founder of the Montreal-based circus company The 7 Fingers. Sometimes, it is to weave high-flying acrobatic feats into Jesse Robb’s athletic choreography for pure spectacle. Other times, the performers are integral storytellers, such as when aerialist Yves Artières transforms an injured show horse, Silver Star, into a tender silks solo, backdropped by Krushinski’s soaring voice on the simple yet evocative “Easy.”

This production solidly tells a story in a way that insures the audience cares about it’s human characters as much as the animals. When you feel the same sympathy for a battered elephant, a dying horse and a battered wife, you have achieved story ...

This production solidly tells a story in a way that insures the audience cares about it’s human characters as much as the animals. When you feel the same sympathy for a battered elephant, a dying horse and a battered wife, you have achieved story telling at a high level. This circus story does not disappoint. Even when tragedy somehow results in a happy ending.

I was blown away by the show. It was one thing for me to admire the set pieces and choreography, but the acting and dramatic moments got audible reactions out of me. I was gasping and going “ooooooooh”. Water For Elephants is a dazzling and emot...

I was blown away by the show. It was one thing for me to admire the set pieces and choreography, but the acting and dramatic moments got audible reactions out of me. I was gasping and going “ooooooooh”. Water For Elephants is a dazzling and emotional spectacle.

Shows linking the circus arts with narrative storytelling, and often with dark psychological themes, are not hard to find if you know where to look. What’s unusual is to see these elements presented so grandly on a stage as big as The Bushnell’s ...

Shows linking the circus arts with narrative storytelling, and often with dark psychological themes, are not hard to find if you know where to look. What’s unusual is to see these elements presented so grandly on a stage as big as The Bushnell’s and presented in a manner that doesn’t compromise a dark tale of anger, revenge, dangerous romance, desperation and survival. There’s no fluff in “Water for Elephants.” It is a display of massive feelings and it has the canvas it needs for such emotional extravagance. In its best scenes, so much is going on that you don’t know where to look.

While Water for Elephants is visually dazzling, it struggles to match its emotional and narrative ambitions. This is especially exposed in a larger theatre which lacks the Broadway-scale intimacy. You’ll be dazzled in the moment, but you may leav...

While Water for Elephants is visually dazzling, it struggles to match its emotional and narrative ambitions. This is especially exposed in a larger theatre which lacks the Broadway-scale intimacy. You’ll be dazzled in the moment, but you may leave realizing the show never truly touched the ground.

The show of course was circus based and the audience ate it up. Especially the aerialist and acrobats. These are true circus acts, and I could not take my eyes off of them. Yves Artieres had, arguably, the most moving scene in the show, as a horse. Y...

The show of course was circus based and the audience ate it up. Especially the aerialist and acrobats. These are true circus acts, and I could not take my eyes off of them. Yves Artieres had, arguably, the most moving scene in the show, as a horse. Yes you read that right, the scene was so moving, my parter was brought to tears. Gabriela Diaz was simply mesmerizing in her movements and lightness. Truly amazing performances.

The series of contrivances constructed to motor the swerving plot, such as the Polish deus ex machina, do not feel earned. The set-’em-up, knock-’em-down quality to the story construction makes the unfolding too obvious and leaves holes. For exam...

The series of contrivances constructed to motor the swerving plot, such as the Polish deus ex machina, do not feel earned. The set-’em-up, knock-’em-down quality to the story construction makes the unfolding too obvious and leaves holes. For example, we’re told early on that if the band ever starts playing “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” everyone should drop everything and run. So we’re meant to keep that in mind, but then when we hear it during the stampede, we are not meant to question why the musicians are playing a Sousa march instead of, say, fleeing.

I loved the singing and dancing. My favorite songs were “The Road Don’t Make YouYoung,” “Squeaky Wheel,” and “Zostań”. Although I did not realize Zostan was the Polish command for “stay,” I misinterpreted it as stop. The elephant R...

I loved the singing and dancing. My favorite songs were “The Road Don’t Make YouYoung,” “Squeaky Wheel,” and “Zostań”. Although I did not realize Zostan was the Polish command for “stay,” I misinterpreted it as stop. The elephant Rosie only knew Polish commands. In fact, I believe that without prior knowledge of the Gruen book or Witherspoon film, the storyline could be compromised and misunderstood by the over-the-top circus theme. In fact, we find out that the circus is all about illusions and deceptions that enthrall us but are not real.

To my delighted surprise, I was reluctantly lulled into the oddly familiar tale of a struggling circus. The drama is compelling as true love erupts, to the disapproval of the power-wielding ringmaster. The scenography, the costumes, the circus tricks...

To my delighted surprise, I was reluctantly lulled into the oddly familiar tale of a struggling circus. The drama is compelling as true love erupts, to the disapproval of the power-wielding ringmaster. The scenography, the costumes, the circus tricks, and even the music (particularly when it strayed occasionally into folk territory), elicited vicarious nostalgia in me. And when they tossed in a handful of animal puppets and a subplot about standing up to animal cruelty, I was fully hooked.

If you have ever wanted to run away and join the circus—a common childhood dream of previous eras—“Water for Elephants” is the musical for you. Yes, it borrows the basic storyline of the 2006 novel by Sara Gruen and the 2011 film but with one...

If you have ever wanted to run away and join the circus—a common childhood dream of previous eras—“Water for Elephants” is the musical for you. Yes, it borrows the basic storyline of the 2006 novel by Sara Gruen and the 2011 film but with one magical difference: the narrative unfolds as a circus.

The theatrical elements that will have the audience wide with amazement are the puppetry and acrobatics. The choreography by Jesse Robb and Shanna Carrol—who also created the circus design—are fast-paced and well thought out to showcase the circu...

The theatrical elements that will have the audience wide with amazement are the puppetry and acrobatics. The choreography by Jesse Robb and Shanna Carrol—who also created the circus design—are fast-paced and well thought out to showcase the circus performers’ talents.

This is an exceptionally imaginative staging; Stone and Carroll (and their assistants) genuinely make you see the traveling circus, animals and all. (They’re beautiful, large-sized puppets, cleverly manifested at complicated angles). That said, it�...

This is an exceptionally imaginative staging; Stone and Carroll (and their assistants) genuinely make you see the traveling circus, animals and all. (They’re beautiful, large-sized puppets, cleverly manifested at complicated angles). That said, it’s not fully a family show (older kids will be fine), in that the memory-based plot deals with an abusive ringmaster, not just of the circus menagerie but of his performer wife.

Carroll’s aerial design elements are the most magical of all. Water for Elephants is most dazzling when it borrows most literally from the circus. Aerialist Yves Artiéres embodies Marlena’s beloved horse with a stunning and athletic silks act. T...

Carroll’s aerial design elements are the most magical of all. Water for Elephants is most dazzling when it borrows most literally from the circus. Aerialist Yves Artiéres embodies Marlena’s beloved horse with a stunning and athletic silks act. The show also includes other incredible feats of athleticism, including a human pyramid of sorts that seems to defy possibility.