Til this day, the Water for Elephants has remained to be my most favorite musical ever from the time I had started watching broadway shows a few years back. And, it was so wonderful and loved it so much that I was able to catch two shows in total. Sadly, it was permanently closed on Dec 8th, 2024 due to a struggling low ticket sale rate. Nonetheless, I was most impressed from the high-flying acts that were presented on an actual broadway stage. The graceful acrobatic movements were phenomenal from the entire cast. There was no illusion or stage magic like other broadway shows. It wasn't just dancing and singing either, but real acrobatics and pole routines. Didn't think it was quite possible to showcase what you would've been able to see at a circus but on stage inside a theater. You know, since a circus venue is usually bigger compared to most stage space. Definitely more exciting and more unique than the actual circus imo. The Water for Elephants combined real circus stunts + life-size puppetry + an emotional storyline. The original soundtrack music got my heart beating and pounding along with the dangerous but thrilling to watch high-stunt acts. If only Water for Elephants could have continued on like other long-running broadways....I would've rewatched it at least once every other month. After all, I couldn't get enough of acrobatics outside of the circus!!! read more

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What a fantastic show! I read Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen 12 years ago. I really enjoyed the book, but it had been so long that I forgot the details of the plot. My aunt and I weren't initially planning to see Water for Elephants. Once we discovered that the show was closing in December, we decided to get tickets. I'm always on the hunt for discounted tickets, and thanks to my friend Helene, we were able to purchase rush tickets at the box office for $49 each. The seats were in the front mezzanine. The view was slightly obstructed, however midway through the show, the usher allowed us to move closer to the center aisle so we had a better view of the stage. In addition to rush tickets, you can try your luck with the daily ticket lottery through Telecharge. There's a limit of two tickets for the lottery and they are $45 each. The singing and harmonies were wonderful and I found myself drawn into the story line immediately. The acrobatics were awesome too! At times, I felt like I was watching a cross between The Lion King and Cirque du Soleil. The actors who portrayed some of the animals did an awesome job. Unfortunately, the show is closing on December 8, 2024 (due to poor ticket sales). Go see it while you still have the opportunity! read more

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Loved Water for Elephants. After losing his parents in a tragic car accident, a young man quits Veterinary School at Cornell, jumps a train and joins the traveling circus. Based on the book, the musical weaves a story of heartbreaking loss, friendship, what defines family, cruelty to people and animals and how to find love again. So lucky to get a last-minute Rush ticket to watch this spellbinding musical. Love the story, the songs, but especially the circus acts. So interesting how they built the train and the big top which brings the circus to life. The puppetry was amazing. A lion which has no teeth, a cute shaggy dog, a white stallion that is overworked and an Elephant named Rosie. The circus acts are also captivating. Acrobatics. Trapeze. Tightrope walking. Juggling. An evil jealous, abusive ringmaster....and an adorable clown. With a sprinkle of Polish. Zostan!! Life is unpredictable and full of unexpected adventures. Interesting to watch through the eyes of both a young Jacob Jankowski and his older self who runs away from his nursing home to revisit the circus and reflect on his life. Have you ever heard of Rush tickets? Rush tickets started with the musical Rent. They sold same day tickets for the first two rows for $20 each for whomever could get to the box office first. Today, many theaters offer same day Rush tickets either by going directly to the box office or via a digital lottery. Thanks to Sarah for my same day general Rush tickets that were purchased at 4 PM on a Saturday afternoon. $49 for orchestra row B. Cash or credit. Amazing seat for a beautiful Broadway show. read more

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Let me start by saying, I'm am not a broadway musical person. But this show was awesome. Well written, great acting, so entertaining, a lot of great moments. Thoroughly entertained! I don't want to spoil it, just go see it! Staff was friendly, space was clean. No complaints there. On another note, why are drinks a gazillion dollars at these things ? read more

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Water for Elephants was a delightful musical. I was amazed at how they were able to duplicate a full sized elephant, as well as other animals, and even the actual ride on a moving train. The physicality of some of the performers were jaw dropping. There were so many moments when their movements could have gone array, but they created memorable moments that should win awards. The singing was also award winning and each performer did a magnificent job. The stage production was genius. How they were able to move large sets in and out kept you busy, trying to follow all that was taking place. I recommend this new musical to everyone and am certain that you will enjoy an exciting and memorable performance. read more

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One of the best broadway shows I've ever seen. The production, the aerial tricks, the singing. All amazing. I'm so glad I got to see Grant Gustin before he left the show! The seats were a little small. read more

Water for Elephants - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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One of the best musicals and Broadway shows I've seen this year so far. It was captivating, entertaining and visually beautiful. I was in awe by the powerful acrobatic movements and performance by the actors. The songs were just amazing. I would definitely recommend the show !! read more

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What a beautiful production! Get ready for an exciting night at the theater - and the circus - as the cast takes you through this compelling story about new dreams, life after a tragedy, and friendship in unexpected places. This is worth seeing. Tip: I recommend the mezzanine for this show to get a full view of the talented acrobats. Enjoy! read more

Water for Elephants - Water for Elephants Marquee - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I was a little hesitant to go to this production even thought I loved the movie and the book because of the animal abuse. But they did such a good job of portraying it. The acting and sets were great. read more

Water for Elephants is one of the best shows I've seen in a long time. This show was not only a love story but also eye candy from every angle, especially the circus performance. It is very cool! read more

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Incredible talent music and choreography amazing beautiful theater loved the show Cirque de soleil performances top notch read more

I loved this show! I read the book and watched the movie, and I was so excited to see it live. This is one of the most unique shows on Broadway because of the acrobatics involved. It was so cool to watch the flips, aerial acts and more. I absolutely love the plot of Water for Elephants and it stayed very true to the book which I appreciated. The cast was amazing, and I loved the music and the costumes. They both reflected the time period very well. All in all, highly recommend Water for Elephants for your next Broadway show! read more

Water for Elephants is a show that makes you feel that you've waltzed right into the circus. Acrobats climbing ropes, jumping through hoops, creating a human pyramid that feels just a little higher than you'd expect. Based on the book and movie by the same name, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski as he finds himself running away and jumping on a train that happens to be a circus troupe. He begins working for the circus and chaos ensues. The cast is incredible - Grant Gustin, Isabelle McCalla and Paul Alexander Nolan expertly play the love triangle. In particular, Nolan plays a brand of evil that is not only horrific, but human - you feel bad for the guy although he is objectively a bad man. Maybe because I haven't seen the book or the movie, but I didn't feel that the plot was as compelling as the acrobatics. To me, the show was a true spectacle that leans heavily on costuming, stunts, sets, and lights. All in all, a show that I'm glad I saw! read more

Water for Elephants - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Water for Elephants was MAGNIFICENT. This is seriously the most entertained I've ever been during a broadway show. I'd recommend it to anyone of any age. Not only were all the songs and the direction super incredible... but it hit on all the heartstrings (while somehow also exhibiting true circus acts). It has it all from acrobatics to flips to puppeteers, and kept me on my toes the entire time. Never a boring moment from start to finish, 10/10! read more

Water for Elephants - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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This show exceeded my expectations! I did not know the story going in and left loving what I saw on my way out! I knew Grant Gustin from Glee and his voice did not disappoint along with powerhouse Paul Alexander Nolan. Gustin gave a very raw and honest performance he makes it look easy, which is the case for most of this cast! The standout performances of the show are done by the ensemble. It will truly have you gasping at your seat. Especially the horse scene in Act 1, I was truly mesmerized. A great show to see if you're trying to get all of the Tony noms under your belt! Worth it. read more

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I really enjoyed watching this musical, I wasn't a fan of the movie but the musical on broadway really takes this story into a new level. The cast is fantastic! the way they dance, jump, climb, and manage the puppets on stage while signing is impecable, everyone is in sync. Isabella McCalla as Marlena was so great, she makes you feel every emotion she is feeling , her voice is enchanting, and seeing her on stage was really memorable. Grant Gustin as the lead was a big and pleasant surprise to me, I seen him as the Flash on the hit TV series for years but watching him perform on this show made me have a new respect towards him as an actor, who know he could sign and dance? Well he does and very well. read more

Water for Elephants - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

We really enjoyed the show! The story captures from the first moments, I felt deeply for the characters due to their great acting. As I person, who enjoys musicals, I loved that part of the show the most. Some of the songs were emotional, the other ones - entertaining, and the dancing skills of the actors just added up to it. And the acrobatic stunts had me at the edge of my seat - that was extremely fun!! Also, the humor delivery was on point, loved it. One of my favorite Broadway shows from now on. read more

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Water for Elephants is a thirst-quenching Broadway experience. From the costumes to the music to the acrobatics - this is what Broadway is made of. Whether it's the ensemble that dazzles high above the stage with incredible athletic prowess or the vocals that fill the theater, the artistry is on full parade. If you are looking for a show that makes you feel all the things, this is your ticket. read more

Really enjoyed the spectacle of this show- the cast was filled with multi-disciplinary artists who could sing, dance, do wild acrobatics, and were excellent puppeteers as well. Some of the music was great as well. It kind of fell apart in the second act and used some pretty tired musical theater story telling tropes. It was a fun show, but isn't groundbreaking by any stretch of the imagination. read more

It was a great show. Highly recommend! The they truly captivated the audience throughout the show. read more

Water for Elephants - Playbill and ticket from orchestra view. - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Water For Elephants transports you into the HEART of the circus world. It's fantastic! The performers are DAZZLING with trapeze, acrobats, areal silks, ostrich feathers and other AMAZING CIRCUS ELEMENTS. Of course, Grant, Isabelle, Paul Alexander and Gregg do a fabulous job as leads. Seriously, the performers are so good. There are also cool puppets for Rosie the Elephant and the zoo menagerie. I choose the ride! read more

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The acrobatics blew me out of the water! The show went by kind of slow at times and I wish there were a few more big dance numbers like at the beginning of Act 2, but I overall had a nice night at the theater. The lead actors were all very talented with standouts being Isabelle McCalla and Paul Alexander Nolan. The music was pretty to listen to, but none of the songs stood out to me. I think with a faster pace, this could have been a more exciting show (instead of only relying on the acrobatics for that), but I do appreciate the show's attention to detail in terms of fleshing out the story. Worth seeing just for the acrobatics, in my opinion. read more

This BEAUTIFUL show combines circus artistry and golden age musical theater for a totally unique broadway experience. The impressive acrobatics aren't just fun, they're integral to the storytelling and have deep emotional impact. It's a true feat and a wonderful experience for the whole family. Must-see! read more

Water for Elephants is a must-see Broadway show that will captivate audiences of all ages. It was incredible to see it live action since I read the book years ago. The music and choreography in Water for Elephants are equally impressive. Recommended 10/10 read more

This show aims to be innovative and certainly accomplishes that! The staging is beautifully out of the box, and the performers are at the top of their game. Visually stunning! The music is somewhat forgettable, but there are definitely strong moments. read more

Water for Elephants is a spectacle show with amazing acrobatics and fun bits of comedy. However, in my opinion, the book and music lacked the same excitement and intrigue as the high flying performances of the acrobatics. It felt predictable and I wasn't as drawn in as I was watching the other aspects of the show. Izzy McCalla is wonderful as Marlena and tugs at the heart strings while you wish for the character's freedom. Paul Alexander Nolan is great as the bad guy and does his job well...I really did hate that character (as you are supposed to.) Stan Brown's voice is beautiful and I wish he was used much more throughout the show. Joe de Paul, having been a clown in the circus in real life, brings the fun and uplifting comedy moments at the right time. The stand outs of this show though, is the artistry if the acrobatics. The silks are absolutely gorgeous and the work these athletes do on the stage every night is incredible. I also enjoyed the puppetry. Getting to sit as close as I was, I was able to see some of the detail of the puppets which are beautiful. Overall, the show is fun if you enjoy acrobatics and want a spectacle night at the theatre. *I was gifted tickets to see this production, however this is my honest review of the show. read more

I was so impressed by this show! The performers were captivating through out the production numbers. Use of and circus tricks and puppetry kept me on my toes. I loved the set and the costumes, it was an overall beautiful evening. I would recommend. read more

The circus performers and acrobats are definitely the reason to go see this innovative show! The set, lighting, and costumes were beautiful and creative. And Paul Nolan is always perfection on stage! That said, the songs are forgettable and some of the performances are uninspired. read more

This show was incredible. It was such a large scale performance for such a classic & uplifting performance. The puppeteers to all the acrobatic filled dance numbers were so entertaining. Definitely recommend catching Water for Elephants! read more

An absolutely stunning show! The acrobatics were astounding and they seemlessly interwoven throughout the show. I loved the way they created the train to move from space to space. The voices were gorgeous and I was especially impressed by the portrayal of Marlena, by Isabella McCalla. I only wish the music matched the emotions of the piece. For me, that was the only thing lacking. read more

We sat in the second row and the seats were incredible. The energy and circus craft in the show is really impressive. I was confused by the choice of design for the elephant puppet and thought the music didn't take us on a satisfying emotional journey. The cast was excellent and the voices were top notch. read more

This show actually left me in tears, it was such a heartwarming story. The main character is an elderly man, and tells the whole story in a flashback. The circus performers were incredible, and the lead actors were perfect across the board. I wasn't familiar with the story, and was so excited to be transported to the 1930s and hear a story about two people and their love for such an incredible animal. I think it's one of the most fun shows on stage this season, while still having a great core message. I look forward to listening to the original cast recording and reliving the experience! You should see this if you can. read more

A great show for a family night out! The music was super fun, the puppetry is great, and the acrobatic elements outstanding! The show is a little long, so be sure to use the bathroom at intermission. read more

Amazing show. We went on Easter and absolutely loved it. When the lead actress sings "Easy", it is one of the most beautifully staged scenes in a musical EVER. Took my breath away. WOW, WOW, WOW! Everyone in the cast so talented and the concept they came up with on how to make the animals and make it into a musical is brilliant. I liked the movie...the musical is far better! read more

This is a complex story brilliantly staged and framed by haunting ballads and rollicking group numbers courtesy of Pig Pen Theatre. Musicians, director, singers and circus acts worked together to bring to life a time, a place and a lifestyle and create an amazing evening of entertainment. Bravo! read more

this is a great production---i loved the puppets. The songs were too complex for a cast album and the narrator was a bit confusing at certain part. overall--a good family show! read more

Really cool show, lots of excitement and acrobats... We walked in knowing it was about the circus, but I truly felt transformed into my childhood AND there was an Elephant!! My only reason for 4 stars is the music, it didn't make me feel any connection to the storyline and the performances could have been jazzier. read more

Grant Gustin and Isabelle McCalla deliver a stunning performance accompanied by a diverse and extremely talented cast. As we entered the world of the Benzizni circus through song, dance, acrobatics and dazzling costumes, it was brought to life with a meaningful and well told story of tragedy and loss and how you can find your way in the most unexpected of places. Many times throughout the show I found myself smiling, laughing, self reflecting, singing along and hoping the show wouldn't end. A truly magical experience that reminds you of what is important in life. Highly Recommend! read more

un show magique ! J'ai vraiment adoré cette pièce de Broadway. Des décors fantastiques, on a l'impression d'être au cirque. Je recommande!

this show is fun to watch! the circus acts are out of this world and the puppetry is super cool. enjoyed my time at water for elephants