“Many wonders await audiences at the Imperial Theatre.” - The New York Times
The critically acclaimed bestselling novel comes to “thrilling, dazzling” life (Time Out New York) in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical with "one of the more remarkable ensembles ever seen on Broadway” (New York Daily News)! Hailed as a Critic’s Pick, The New York Times calls it “stunning, emotional and gorgeously imaginative.”
After losing what matters most, a young man jumps a moving train unsure of where the road will take him and finds a new home with the remarkable crew of a traveling circus, and a life—and love—beyond his wildest dreams. Seen through the eyes of his older self, his adventure becomes a poignant reminder that if you choose the ride, life can begin again at any age.
Tony Award-nominated director Jessica Stone’s “huge, heart-filling" production (The New York Times) features a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice adapted from Sara Gruen’s novel, and a soaring score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co.
So, step right up to the “spellbinding entertainment” (Variety) at Water for Elephants, “the best new musical on Broadway” (Theatermania).
Score average from verified show reviews by customers who’ve bought tickets from Broadway.com.
"I read the book so had high expectations for the musical. It did not disappoint. The circus performances were amazing. The interpretation of the animals was fascinating. The music was lively and lovely. The cast performances were spot on. I ended standing, clapping, with tears in my eyes. "
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Roxanne H from Wishek on Sep 18, 2024
"If the reading the book, I was dubious that the Broadway play could capture the spirit of the story. Was I ever wrong. Not only did it capture it it elevated it and Provided so much entertainment with the acrobatics and the choreography that I would see the play again. I’ve only seen a few shows more than once."
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Francis S from North Haledon on Sep 16, 2024
"This show is exciting and fun from beginning to end! There is so much going on, I think I could watch it multiple times and still see new things. The artists gave a superb performance. Excellent! "
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 16, 2024
"I am a huge fan of the book and this musical encapsulated everything I loved about it!! 10/10 recommend for everyone!"
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Jennifer S from COLUMBUS on Sep 15, 2024
"Who doesn’t love elephants??? The story is wonderful and heartfelt but the voices and the acrobatics are outstanding!!! I’d love to see it again."
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Pamela S from Pittsboro on Sep 13, 2024
"I thought the play was amazing. It was funny, sentimental, and romantic, and the props were so creative. I loved the acrobatics and dances. It's a must see! "
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Lisa D from King on Sep 13, 2024
"4 seniors went to see Water for Elephants. We were all extremely pleased with the production. The performers were amazing and did a fantastic performance. Highly recommend the show to all ages."
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 12, 2024
"Such a creative performance telling the touching story of Water for Elephants- loved this show from start to finale! "
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Claudia d from Atlanta on Sep 12, 2024
"The show was better than expected. Not only the signing and the acting was amazing, but it was more like the circus with music! "
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Kenneth B from Fort Lauderdale on Sep 10, 2024
"Amazing stunts, incredible cast, catchy songs—this show was fun for the whole family!"
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 9, 2024
"We were so excited to see this show. It was at the Imperial theatre, which is beautiful. The show was full of talent, great vocals and a wonderful story. I will say that the storytelling was easy to follow. Thanks to all involved for this production. Absolutely worth seeing."
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Patricia C from Lafayette on Sep 9, 2024
"Endless talent - acting, singing and acrobatics. Relatable content, heart-warming and endearing! "
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 8, 2024
"Water for elephants was magnificent show and aligned closely with the book. The performance and props were incredible and highly entertaining. The book was too mature for kids but I felt the broadway show is any age appropriate. The acrobatics were stelllar. I’d watch this again if it came to my hometown. "
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Stephen N from San Francisco on Sep 8, 2024
"Fantastic talent: singers, dancers, actors, puppeteers, and especially acrobats. And in most cases the cast was all of the above. Stellar staging. Perfect night at the theater..."
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Daniel B from Vicksburg on Sep 6, 2024
"i have seen this show twice now, and of all of the shows i have ever seen, this one is the best. fiercely underrated. great up close, and far away!! it's perfectly cast, the animals are done in a tasteful and original way. i will be coming back every chance i get! see this show!!!"
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mack f from Richmond on Sep 4, 2024
"Fantastic full size puppetry and overwhelming acrobats. Great drama. Made me good cry at points. Loved the older Jacob. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 4, 2024
"We took a seven year old. She loved the movement, the circus numbers, Rosie, and the clown. She “got” the abstractions. Had to explain the period references such as what a raid was, why the police were coming, and the beginning “train” scene. Once she understood, she bought into the style and loved it."
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 3, 2024
"The acrobatics of the show were amazing. I loved the songs and all the performances were beautiful. Grant Gustin was adorable. A right amount of action, romance and comedy was blended together. Loved it. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 2, 2024
"This is my first ever Broadway show. The story telling and athleticism performed by the cast transformed my idea of what is to be experienced when following the written story to a stage. I am extremely grateful to have had this opportunity and it was even more amazing to have met some of the cast. All very kind even after an amazing performance because I sure they must have been exhausted. "
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Jairo D from Bakersfield on Sep 2, 2024
"You pay for a musical, get a great one, and get a circus as a bonus. It’s a really good show!"
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Broadway.com Customer on Aug 30, 2024
"I read the wonderful book 2 times, the last after securing tickets for myself and 3 others; I had serious misgivings about how it could possibly be produced as a musical. It was magical--the animal representations, the strong actors, most with great athletic prowess and the compelling music combined to entertain the 4 of us --meeting and exceeding our expectations for a great show!"
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Andrea H from St Petersburg on Aug 30, 2024
"This is one of the best plays I have ever seen! The performers were exceptional from the singing, dancing and certainly their acrobatics! Beautiful production of a wonderful story!! Highly recommend! "
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Broadway.com Customer on Aug 29, 2024
"Beautiful job presenting a really challenging story for the stage. My only regret is being reminded that I can't run away to the circus when I retire."
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Gretchen F from Brunswick on Aug 26, 2024
"Song, dance, amazing acrobatics, color and music spring to life in presenting a familiar theme with no need for a barker to entice us into its big tent. Who can not help but love the characters and the menagerie. The show has multiple stars ; it will have you leave with a twinkle in your eye. . "
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Broadway.com Customer on Aug 26, 2024
"I thought it was done so well. The technical and acting sides became one, thanks to the talented cast and crew. I was holding my breath during stunts performed by the cast, and also holding back tears when the actors brought to life their characters"
