Broadway in Chicago's touring production of Water for Elephants is a remarkable example of how a beloved novel can be transformed to the stage while retaining its heart and spectacle. Through its breathtaking acrobatics, imaginative puppetry, and emotionally resonant performances, the production captures both the magic and hardships of life under the big top. More than just a visual spectacle, the musical explores themes of resilience, found family, and hope in the face of adversity. By the final curtain, audiences are left not only impressed by the extraordinary talent on stage, but also moved by a story celebrating the enduring power of compassion and belonging.
Based on the 2006 New York Times bestseller novel by Sara Gruen, the musical adaptation first premiered in Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre in 2023 before transferring to Broadway in 2024. The Broadway production went on to be nominated for seven Tony awards including Best Musical, and earned four Drama Desk Awards including Outstanding Direction of a Musical and Outstanding Puppetry. From the moment Chicago audiences walk into the theater, Water for Elephants promises spectacle and entertainment throughout the performance.
Set during the Great Depression, Jacob Jankowski’s (Zachary Keller) life unravels after a tragedy leaves him without his parents, his father’s veterinary practice, or his home. Driven by grief and desperation, he jumps aboard a train in search of escape and finds himself with the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth circus troupe. There, he takes charge of caring for the animals and meets foreman Wade (Grant Huneycutt), circus worker Camel (Javier Garcia), clown Walter (Tyler West), dancer Barbara (Ruby Gibbs), ringmaster August (Connor Sullivan), and star performer—and August’s wife—Marlena (Helen Krushinski). When Jacob and Marlena are tasked with training the circus’s new attraction, Rosie the elephant, under August’s abusive and jealous scrutiny, Jacob finds himself torn between his loyalty to his friends and the animals of the circus, and his growing romance with Marlena. Ultimately, his journey becomes one of survival and belonging.
Having worked as associate director on both the Alliance Theatre and Broadway productions, tour director Ryan Emmons understands the energy and wonder meant to be on stage in Water for Elephants. Collaborating with many of the same creative team members are Takeshi Kata (scenic design), David I. Reynoso (costume design), Bradley King (lighting design) and David Bengali (projection design); the touring company brings Gruen’s novel to life. With the text written by Rick Elice and music and lyrics by the PigPen Theatre Co., Water for Elephants sounds vibrant when performed live.
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. Numbers such as “The Road Don’t Make You Young,” “Zostań,” and “Go Home” feature gravity-defying acrobatics and lively dance, culminating in thunderous applause. Meanwhile, the puppetry designed by Ray Wetmore and Jr. Goodman Camille LaBarre is incredible to see in action. From the subtle action of Queenie the dog to the slow but worthwhile reveal of Rosie the Elephant, some audience members will be captured by the magic of the puppets and see them as real circus animals.
Many cast members of Water for Elephants are making their national debut in this production and succeed in mesmerizing their audience. As the leading man, Illinois native Keller brings vulnerability and resilience as Jacob. Showcasing brilliant vibratos, his singing is made prominent in “Silver Stars,” “Anywhere/Another Train” and “Go Home.” Great chemistry is found between Keller and Krushinski, a complex character first swept away by the glamor of the circus, and now longs for something more trusting and away from her abusive husband. The couple’s duet of “Wild” warms the audience’s hearts as the characters’ friendship turns into a loving romance. As ringmaster August, Sullivan captures the dominating presence of the circus leader who is not afraid to turn to threats and violence if things are not done his way.
Notable performances are found in Tyler West (Walter) Grant Huneycutt (Wade), Javier Garcia (Camel) and Robert Tully (Mr. Jankowski). West brings sass and comedy to Walter as well as laughter and awe to the audience with his energetic performance. Huneycutt presents a sensitive side as the foreman, subjected to August’s bullying and violence, while Garcia’s Camel is an encouraging voice to Jacob. Tully's portrayal of the older Jacob is convincing, particularly in the way it mirrors Keller's portrayal of the younger Jacob. The entire ensemble should be recognized for their amazing talents in vocal, dance, acrobatic and puppetry performance through the entire production.
The national tour of Water for Elephants continues until July 5 at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. Run time is 2 hours and 20 minutes, including an intermission. For tickets (starting at $39) and information, visit the Broadway in Chicago official website.
For more information on this and other productions, see theatreinchicago.com.
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