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Water for Elephants Musical

Imperial Theatre • 249 West 45th Street • New York, NY 10036

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A group of performers in varied costumes stand and sit on a multi-level stage set, with scaffolding and spotlights, during a theatrical production.

Aerial performer suspended on ropes reaching toward a standing person on stage, under spotlight in dark setting.

Performer in circus attire stands with arms raised on a dimly lit stage, surrounded by a group of crouching figures, all under a red spotlight.

A person performs an aerial flip on stage, surrounded by an ensemble cast. A backdrop displays a blue sky with clouds.

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Overview

Journey into the world of Water for Elephants Musical live at the Imperial Theatre in NYC. Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, this 2.5-hour show features The Flash’s Grant Gustin, Aladdin-The Musical’s Isabelle McCalla, and a talented Broadway cast. Enjoy mesmerizing acrobatics, striking visuals, and unforgettable melodies under the big top!

up to 2.5 hrs

Good To Know

This remarkable Broadway show is based on Sara Gruen's 2006 bestselling novel Water for Elephants, adapted to the stage by librettist Rick Elice.
Enjoy an approximately 2.5-hour musical performance (with a 15-minute intermission) live at NYC's Imperial Theatre.
Doors open 30 minutes prior to show start. Allow time for finding parking and city traffic.
Due to the mature and delicate content included, the show is recommended for audiences ages 8 and up. Ages 3 and below are not permitted inside.
Snacks and drinks (in closed containers) purchased from the concessions are allowed into the theater.
Dress in layers. The theater is kept cool all year round. The theater provides a coat check.
Wheelchair-accessible seating available. Assistive listening devices are also available upon arrival.
The theater has limited accessibility. Please note that there are no escalators and elevators on site.

Description

The critically acclaimed bestselling novel Water for Elephants comes to vivid life on Broadway in a unique, spectacle-filled new musical.

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.

Directed by Tony Award® nominee Jessica Stone (Kimberly Akimbo), with a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice (Jersey Boys, Peter and the Starcatcher) adapted from Sara Gruen’s novel and a soaring score by the acclaimed PigPen Theatre Co., Water for Elephants unites innovative stagecraft with the very best of Broadway talent in an authentic and deeply moving new musical that invites us all to give ourselves to the unknown.

This show is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.

Promotional Images (10)

A group of performers energetically jumping on stage with joyful expressions, set against a backdrop of a blue sky and power lines.

Performers on stage engage in an acrobatic routine with ropes, surrounded by colorful costumes and dramatic lighting.

Six people in theatrical costumes perform on stage with dramatic lighting. A man stands on a circus pedestal holding a stuffed animal.

Three people sit on a suspended platform against a purple sky backdrop, wearing casual vintage-style clothing.

A man and woman stand closely, facing each other against a wooden backdrop. The woman wears a scarf and red outfit; the man wears a vest and striped shirt.

Water for Elephants is located at Imperial Theatre • 249 West 45th Street • New York, NY 10036

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Frequently Asked Questions about Water for Elephants

Where is the show performed?

The show is at the Imperial Theatre at 249 West 45th Street, just east of 8th Avenue, in New York City.

How long is the show?

The show lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 to 40 minutes with a 15 to 20 minute-intermission.

Is the show recommended for children?

The show is recommended for ages eight (8) and up. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.

Are there any potentially sensitive themes explored in the show that audience members should know about?

Yes. The musical is based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name, Water for Elephants. It is a story of love, adventure and intrigue within a traveling circus. The story tackles mature and sensitive subjects, encompassing abuse, neglect, and harm inflicted upon both animals and individuals. However, the animals in the story will only be portrayed by puppets and the harm they experience will only be implied.

What should I wear?

Some theater-goers get dressed for Broadway but you are welcome to wear comfortable attire. Please remember that the theater is kept cool year-round, so you might want to dress in layers.

Are the food and drinks on site?

Yes, food and drinks will be available for purchase. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside.

Is there wheelchair-accessible seating available?

Yes, wheelchair seating is available with no steps. Accessible seating accommodations in the theater are fifteen row-end seats with folding armrests. If you or anyone in your group requires this assistance, please make a note of your request in the comments section above when booking your reservation.

Are there wheelchair-accessible restrooms? Is the theater wheelchair accessible?

A wheelchair-accessible restroom is located in the lobby. Additional restrooms are available one flight of stairs up from the Orchestra level. However, please note that the theater is not fully wheelchair accessible without elevators or escalators.