If you choose "the road," you have to be prepared for a rough ride. This is the lesson learned by Jacob Jankowski (Grant Gustin), a young almost veterinarian in the new Broadway musical Water for Elephants. Jacob has nothing. In the thick of the Depression, his parents have been killed in a car crash, and the bank has seized his home. He jumps on a circus train, going who knows where.
It takes more than a little while for him to be accepted, but since he has a skill—working with animals—he becomes part of the crew. Along the way, he falls in love with a beautiful performer, Marlena (Isabelle McCalla). Their feelings for each other grows, but she's not free. They both become fond of an elephant, and try to shield "Rosie" from the hardness of the circus life.
This show may remind many theater-goers of The Lion King since the animals are moved around by people. It's also too long.
The first act is enchanting, featuring not only fine singing, but also acrobats, magicians, and some truly amazing tricks. Unfortunately, the second act sinks; it's far more mundane, and the magic has fizzled out.
Water for Elephants is well worth seeing; just make sure you use the bathroom and open your snacks first.
