WATER FOR ELEPHANTS Is Circus Exciting 

Bonnie DeShong

Broadway in Chicago has brought the Broadway touring company of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS to the Nederlander Theatre.

When you enter the theatre, you hope that the performances will be something as exciting as the circus curtain façade. When the curtain opened, it did not disappoint.

The story kicks off with an endearing elderly circus veteran, Mr. Jankowski, who shares how he joined the circus world. We’re quickly whisked back to the Great Depression, where young Jacob Jankowski, played by Zachary Keller, finds himself at a life-altering crossroads after his parents’ tragic accident. In search of a fresh start, he jumps onto a moving train that turns out to be a circus train. From there, the stage erupts with the vibrant energy of flying acrobats and powerful singers.  The puppetry, especially Rosie the elephant, is truly a spectacle you won’t want to miss! Expect a mix of love, rivalry, old circus traditions, friendships, jealousy, and even a bit of murder.

 Robert Tully’s portrayal of the older Mr. Jankowski is heartwarming and filled with whimsy. He sneaks out of his senior home to get one last glimpse of the O’Brien’s One-Ring Circus, bringing back memories of his time at the famed Benzini Brothers’ circus.

Connor Sullivan shines as both August, the charismatic yet violent Benzini Brothers circus owner, and O’Brien’s One-Ring Circus manager, Charlie. He effortlessly moves between these roles. And then there’s Helen Krushinski, who dazzles us as Marlena, August’s wife and the star of the Benzini Brothers’ show, and June in today’s O’Brien’s Circus. Both performances are intense and wonderfully distinct.

Right from the start, you can feel the connection between Jacob and Marlena, bound by their empathy for the animals. Your heartstrings will be pulled when Marlena’s horse, Silver Star, portrayed by Yves Artieres in a breathtakingly beautiful aerial act, must be put down. But with the loss of Silver Star, in comes Rosie the Elephant to steal the show!

The supporting cast and circus performers bring the musical its heart with beautiful voices, amazing talent, and humor.

I’m not going to spoil everything because some adventures are best experienced firsthand. The voices, the sparse yet ingenious set design, and the compelling story really made for a memorable evening at the theatre.

I give WATER FOR ELEPHANTS earns a heartfelt 4 out of 5 winks of the EYE.

Until next time, keep your eye to the sky!