The Water for Elephants the Musical is currently being performed as part of the Broadway in Cincinnati series April 21-May 3, 2026. The story examines what in people’s lives drive them to joining the circus. Whether, didn’t have anything to go back to, or they could have loss a relationship, home or nowhere to feel special.  The life in the circus was hard, tiring and full of risk and dangers and full of shysters and users however a home for those who didn’t have one.

The story focuses on life of drop out veterinarian student Jacob Jankowski. (Zackary Keller) after the tragic loss of his parents, filled with hopelessness he hopped a train for a new life.  He discovers this was not just any train. However, this train is filled with carnival workers, Camel, Wade, and Walter.  They try to convince him not to join even to the point of violence however he convinces them he could be useful with the animals.

He meets August the ringmaster who can be deceptive, ruthless, and abusive to all around him whether, co-workers, Jacob, or his spouse Marlena. He is also jealous of anyone being with his wife.

Marlena cares about animals and people. Her favorite horse is Silver Star and loved Rosie her Elephant. She was very attracted to Jacob and his character and integrity. Her attraction to Jacob begins a slippery slope in love triangle with Her, Jacob, and August guaranteed to bring drama and intensity.

Connor Sullivan was very convincing and over the top as August. He was part-time salesperson, other times abusive trainer and possessive.  He hit the mark on everything you can think of.  He made the drama highly effective as he played opposite of Zackary Keller.

Acting notables:

Hellen Krushinski was driven as Marlena and pulled patron’s in rooting for her success.  Excellent voice!

Zachary had a commanding performance made the character of Jacob Jankowshi real to you.  He was going to whisk Marlena away to a better life.  He was the Hero. He was the counterbalance to the dark side of August.

Water for Elephants is an excellence show and one not to miss. It is a definite four star performance. It makes you believe love conquers all again. More information is available at: https://www.cincinnatiarts.org/