Broadway’s Water for Elephants, currently playing at the Imperial Theatre, is a vibrant adaptation of Sara Gruen’s beloved novel. This musical brings to life the tumultuous world of a traveling circus during the Great Depression, melding acrobatics, music, and a touch of nostalgia into a spectacle that aims to capture the hearts of its viewers. Directed by Jessica Stone, this production features a book by Rick Elice and music by PigPen Theatre Co., promising a unique blend of storytelling and artistry that is engaging and visually captivating.
Set against the backdrop of the 1930s, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski, a veterinary student who, after losing his family, jumps onto a train belonging to the Benzini Brothers Circus. Here, he finds not only a new family among the circus performers but also becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle with Marlena, the circus’s star performer, and her abusive husband August. As Jacob navigates this chaotic new world filled with danger and wonder, he must confront his own values and the harsh realities of life on the road. The story unfolds with themes of love, loyalty, and survival, all while showcasing the dazzling performances that define circus life.
The cast delivers commendable performances that bring depth to their characters. Kyle Selig shines Broadway as Jacob Jankowski. His portrayal captures Jacob’s vulnerability and determination, making him a relatable protagonist.
Isabelle McCalla as Marlena is another standout. Her voice is powerful and haunting, particularly in her solo number ‘Easy’, where she conveys strength and fragility. McCalla’s chemistry with Gustin adds layers to their romantic connection, making their struggles distinct.
Paul Alexander Nolan as August provides a chilling counterpoint to Jacob’s earnestness. His performance is intense and commanding, effectively portraying August’s volatility. Nolan’s ability to oscillate between charm and menace keeps you on edge.
The ensemble cast supports these leads well, with notable mentions for Gregg Edelman as Jacob’s father and Stan Brown as Camel. Each actor brings their character to life with authenticity, contributing to the overall emotional weight of the production.
Jessica Stone’s direction is ambitious yet thoughtful. She successfully integrates circus elements into the narrative without allowing them to overshadow the story itself. The pacing feels right; moments of tension are balanced with lighter scenes that showcase the circus’s vibrancy.
The production design is striking. Takeshi Kata’s scenic design creates an immersive environment that transports you into the heart of the circus. The use of projections by David Bengali enhances this experience, painting dynamic backdrops that shift with the story’s mood. Lighting designer Bradley King adds depth with dramatic contrasts that highlight key moments.
The choreography by Shana Carroll and Jesse Robb is nothing short of breathtaking. The acrobatic performances are skillfully woven into the narrative, serving as entertainment and as metaphors for risk and resilience in Jacob’s journey. The aerialist performances are particularly memorable—each act feels like poetry in motion.
However, while many elements shine brightly, the music often falls flat in memorability. Songs like ‘The Road Don’t Make You Young’ capture energy but lack depth in lyrical content.
The sheer spectacle of acrobatics left me breathless at times; I found myself leaning forward in my seat during particularly daring stunts. However, I also felt moments where dialogue felt clunky or overly simplistic—a reminder that while visuals can captivate you, strong writing remains essential for a truly impactful experience.
The love story between Jacob and Marlena tugged at my heartstrings; their struggles felt real amidst the fantastical setting of the circus. Yet, I couldn’t help but wish for deeper exploration into their characters’ motivations—especially August’s—which sometimes felt one-dimensional despite Nolan’s strong performance.
Water for Elephants is an ambitious production that brings together stunning visuals and heartfelt performances. While it may not achieve perfection—particularly in its musical score—it offers you an engaging escape into a world filled with color and emotion. I would recommend this show to anyone who appreciates theatrical spectacle or has an affinity for stories set against historical backdrops.
For those looking for a traditional musical experience centered heavily on song-driven narratives, this might not fully satisfy your expectations. However, if you’re open to an innovative blend of circus artistry and storytelling that invites you to engage your imagination, then Water for Elephants could be just what you’re looking for—a charming tale wrapped in layers of beauty and complexity.