Grant Gustin to depart 'Water for Elephants' this fall
The star of the TV shows The Flash and Glee originates the role of Jacob Jankowski in the musical adaptation of Sara Gruen's circus-inspired 2006 novel.
Grant Gustin, who currently stars in Water for Elephants on Broadway, will play his final performance in the show at the Imperial Theatre on September 1.
Gustin is best known for playing the title role in the TV show The Flash, and he is now making his Broadway debut in the leading role of Jacob Jankowski. Based on the 2006 bestselling historical romance novel by Sara Gruen, the seven-time Tony Award-nominated show follows Jacob as he runs away with the circus in search of a fresh start. He finds one, along with a new career calling and a forbidden love with the ringmaster's wife.
Replacement casting for the role of Jacob has yet to be announced. Current Water for Elephants cast members also include Isabelle McCalla as Marlena, Gregg Edelman as Mr. Jankowski, Paul Alexander Nolan as August, Stan Brown as Camel, Joe De Paul as Walter, Sara Gettelfinger as Barbara, and Wade McCollum as Wade.
Frequently asked questions
What is Water For Elephants about?
Sara Gruen's bestselling novel is now a high-flying musical-meets-circus spectacular. After tragedy strikes, Jacob quits vet school and stows away with a traveling circus — and ends up in a secret love affair with the ringmaster's wife that causes tension under the big top.
Where is Water For Elephants playing?
Water For Elephants is playing at Imperial Theatre. The theatre is located at 249 West 45th Street (between Broadway and 8th Avenue), New York, 10036.
How long is Water For Elephants?
The running time of Water For Elephants is 2hr 40min. Incl. 15min intermission.
What's the age requirement for Water For Elephants?
The recommended age for Water For Elephants is Ages 8+. Children under 4 are not permitted in the theater..
How do you book tickets for Water For Elephants?
Book tickets for Water For Elephants on New York Theatre Guide.
Who wrote Water For Elephants?
Rick Elice wrote the book for the Water for Elephants musical, based on Sara Gruen's original novel. He’s known for his Tony-nominated writing on Jersey Boys and Peter and the Starcatcher. The musical collective PigPen Theatre Co. wrote the songs.
Who directed Water For Elephants?
Jessica Stone directs Water For Elephants. She was nominated for a Tony Award for directing Kimberly Akimbo in 2023.
What are the songs in Water For Elephants?
PigPen Theatre Co. wrote the original music and lyrics for this show. The songs include “The Lion Has Got No Teeth,” “Just Our Luck,” and “Squeaky Wheel.”
Is Water For Elephants appropriate for kids?
Water For Elephants is recommended for ages 8 and older. The show contains some adult themes, acts of violence, and strong language, but the circus acts and spectacles will dazzle young audiences.
Is Water For Elephants good?
Water For Elephants is based on the critically acclaimed book and film of the same name, and the stage version is a uniquely exciting, larger-than-life spectacle with lots of talent involved. The show offers a rare opportunity to get the entertainment of a circus and a musical in one.
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