Water for Elephants - The Musical Tickets
Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre | Hartford, Connecticut
Grab your chance to witness Water for Elephants - The Musical, a dazzling Broadway sensation lighting up the stage at Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre in vibrant Hartford, Connecticut this summer! On Thursday 4th June 2026, feel the wonder of Sara Gruen’s beloved novel brought to life through stunning circus artistry, powerful romance and a beautiful score.
Follow Jacob Jankowski as he joins a Depression-era circus, falling for star performer Marlena while clashing with her volatile husband, August. With Rosie, the extraordinary elephant, at its core, this Tony - nominated extravaganza - directed by Jessica Stone with choreography by Jesse Robb and Shana Carroll - won seven Tony nominations and four Drama Desk Awards. It is celebrated as “beautifully visionary” by The NY Times.
Hartford’s has top-tier dining and entertainment options. Don’t overlook this exhilarating tale of romance and redemption under the big top this June! Tickets for this Thursday 4th June 2026 essential showing start at only $132. Click the “Buy tickets” button now to claim your spot at Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre this Thursday night!
Step into the enchanting and colorful world of Water for Elephants - The Musical, a awe-inspiring Broadway extravaganza that delivers heart-pounding circus skills with a timeless tale of loss, romance, and salvation. Based on Sara Gruen's beloved novel, this critically acclaimed production takes the audience on a adventure through the authentic portrayal of a Depression-era traveling circus. With creative puppetry, acrobatic feats, and a beautiful score - it's a treat for the senses and has been mesmerizing theatergoers since its premiere. Whether you're a fan of the book, the film, or just crave an extraordinary night out, this show delivers an heartfelt journey full of excitement. Click the "Buy tickets" button now to secure your Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre seats this Thursday 4th June 2026 and join the adventure this summer for only $132!
Synopsis
Set at the time of the Great Depression, Water for Elephants follows young Jacob Jankowski, a veterinary student whose life shatters after a tragic loss. Desperate and directionless, he hops aboard a moving train, only to discover it's the home of the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth - a ragtag circus struggling to survive. As Jacob looks after the animals, including the extraordinary elephant Rosie, he falls deeply in love with Marlena, the beautiful star performer trapped in a abusive marriage to the domineering ringmaster, August. Told through memories from an elderly Jacob's perspective, the story highlights themes of optimism, forbidden love, and the wonder of the big top. It reminds us that life's biggest surprises arrive when we least expect them.
Cast & Crew
Leading the ensemble is Grant Gustin in his Broadway debut as the idealistic young Jacob. Isabelle McCalla (Shucked, The Prom) shines as Marlena. Paul Alexander Nolan portrays the formidable August, while Gregg Edelman provides heartfelt wisdom as older Jacob. The ensemble, including Stan Brown as Camel and Sara Gettelfinger as Barbara, dazzles with their multifaceted talents in singing, choreography and circus skills. Behind the scenes, the visionary team includes book writer Rick Elice, music and lyrics by the unique PigPen Theatre Co., direction by Tony-nominated Jessica Stone, and choreography by Jesse Robb and Shana Carroll.
History & Awards
Water for Elephants debuted as a world premiere at Atlanta's Alliance Theatre in 2023, where it stunned audiences with its fresh take on the original book. It made its Broadway opening in 2024 at the Imperial Theatre, and it swiftly became a essential hit. The production secured 7 Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, Best Book, and Best Choreography. It also triumphed at the Drama Desk Awards, securing 4 awards such as Outstanding Direction of a Musical.
Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre at Hartford
Witness Water for Elephants live at the renowned Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre, located in the urban center of Hartford, Connecticut. This historic theater boasts stunning architecture, state-of-the-art acoustics, and close-knit seating that immerses you in the action. Much like the circus world, Hartford has a flair for showmanship, featuring exceptional restaurants, boutiques, and landmarks just steps away from Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre. Organize your trip today and hit the "Buy tickets" button for this Thursday 4th June 2026 performance and let Hartford be the stage to your memorable evening!
