Water for Elephants musical arrives at San Diego Civic Theatre

The national tour of the Broadway musical ‘Water for Elephants’ has arrived at the San Diego Civic Theatre. Based on the novel by Sara Gruen, the production is set during the Great Depression and follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who joins the Benzini Brothers traveling circus after losing his parents.

As an aspiring veterinarian, Jacob is tasked with caring for the circus animals, including a 53-year-old elephant named Rosie. The story explores the developing relationship between Jacob and Marlena, a star performer, amidst the volatile leadership of Marlena’s husband, August.

Critics have highlighted the production’s use of puppetry to represent animals and the performances of lead actors Zachary Keller and Helen Krushinski. The musical features songs from PigPen Theatre Co. and lighting design by Bradley King.