Water for Elephants Songs: A Guide to the Musical’s Soundtrack
The Water for Elephants the Musical transports audiences to the magical world of the 1930s circus, complete with stunning acrobatics, vibrant songs, and the nostalgic charm of the era’s music.
Inspired by Sara Gruen’s critically acclaimed bestselling novel, the musical tells the poignant story of Jacob Jankowski, who looks back on his youth when he found a new life with the Benzini Brothers Circus.
This guide takes you through the Water for Elephants songs that breathe life into this spectacular Broadway production at the Imperial Theatre.
Key Takeaways
- Songs and Story: See how the songs in Water for Elephants bring the circus and characters’ stories to life on stage.
- Music by PigPen Theatre Co: Find out how the band’s mix of folk and circus tunes adds to the show’s unique feel.
- Broadway Magic: Learn how the songs help make the Water for Elephants musical a special experience at the Imperial Theatre.
Songs in Water for Elephants
Water for Elephants uses a range of songs to bring the circus world of the 1930s to life. From soft, emotional ballads to upbeat circus tunes, each song plays a part in telling the story of Jacob, Marlena, and the Benzini Brothers Circus.
The music captures the joys, struggles, and dramas of circus life, making the characters’ journeys feel real and relatable.
Let’s take a look at all the songs that make this Broadway musical a must-see:
| Song Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Anywhere/Another Train | Jacob, feeling lost after his parents’ death, jumps on a train to find a new life. He ends up with the Benzini Brothers Circus, and this song shows his mix of sadness and hope as he starts his circus journey. |
| The Road Don’t Make You Young | A fun, upbeat song that talks about the tough life on the road with the circus. It shows how the crew feels worn out but keeps going, giving Jacob a look into the real world of circus life. |
| Easy | Marlena sings a gentle song to her injured horse, Silver Star, hoping he will recover. The music reflects her care and concern, and it uses aerial silks to show the horse’s struggle and rest. |
| The Lion Has Got No Teeth | August, the circus boss, reveals the truth about the circus to Jacob. He explains that many things are just for show, like the lion with no teeth, hinting at the darker side of circus life. |
| I Choose The Ride | A song about choosing the circus as a home. Jacob and other circus workers sing about how they have no place else to go, embracing the circus life despite its challenges. |
| Ode to an Elephant | This song introduces Rosie the elephant. Using shadows and music, it captures the awe that Jacob and Marlena feel when they first see Rosie, hinting at the hope she brings to the struggling circus. |
| Just Our Luck | The circus crew sings about their luck in finding Rosie, believing she will save the circus. The song reflects their mix of hope and relief as they plan to make her the star of the show. |
| Silver Stars | Jacob struggles with his feelings for Marlena, who is married to August. This song mirrors his internal battle as he tries to keep his emotions in check, linking his feelings to Marlena’s prized horse, Silver Star. |
| The Grand Spec | A big circus number that brings the audience into the heart of the show. It features puppetry and circus acts, showing the full spectacle of the Benzini Brothers Circus with lively, rich music. |
| Funny Angel | A light, playful song where Marlena and Rosie perform together. It shows their bond growing as Marlena teaches Rosie new tricks, highlighting Rosie’s charm and quirks. |
| Zostań | This cheerful song celebrates Jacob’s discovery that Rosie understands Polish. It’s a turning point for the circus, as they realise Rosie can be trained with patience and kindness, not harshness. |
| Squeaky Wheel | A warning to Jacob from other circus members, advising him to stay quiet about his feelings for Marlena. They remind him that making trouble could end badly for everyone involved. |
| You’ve Got Nothing | August confronts Jacob and his crew, ordering them off the circus train. This intense song shows the harsh and dangerous side of circus life, highlighting the power struggles within the group. |
| What Do You Do? | Marlena reflects on her choices and the problems she faces. She’s torn between her love for Jacob and her loyalty to August, questioning what path she should take as she sings. |
| Wild | A passionate love song between Jacob and Marlena as they escape together. It captures the freedom they feel in their love, away from the circus and its troubles. |
| Go Home | Jacob sings about his lost family and the choices he’s made. He struggles with his feelings towards Marlena and his anger towards August, considering drastic actions but holding back in the end. |
| Finale (I Choose The Ride) | In the final song, Jacob and Marlena decide to build a new life with Rosie after a dramatic stampede. The elder Jacob’s story comes full circle as he chooses to join the circus once again, embracing the life he loves. |
Overall
Water for Elephants on Broadway brings Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel to life with songs that capture the spirit of the circus and the characters’ stories. The music by PigPen Theatre Co mixes folk and circus sounds, adding to the drama and magic of the show.
Each song reflects the ups and downs of life with the Benzini Brothers Circus, making the musical at the Imperial Theatre a special experience. Whether you know the book or not, the songs make this Broadway production unforgettable.
FAQs
What is Water for Elephants about?
Water for Elephants follows the story of Jacob Jankowski, who, after losing his parents, joins the Benzini Brothers Circus. The musical explores his journey, the relationships he forms, and the challenges of circus life.
Who wrote Water for Elephants?
The original novel was written by Sara Gruen. The musical adaptation features songs by PigPen Theatre Co.
Where can I see Water for Elephants on Broadway?
The musical is currently running at the Imperial Theatre. It brings Sara Gruen’s bestselling novel to life with a mix of music, acrobatics, and circus performances.
What are some standout songs in Water for Elephants?
Key songs include Anywhere/Another Train, The Grand Spec, and Wild, each contributing to the emotional and dramatic arc of the story.
Who are the main characters in Water for Elephants?
The main characters include Jacob Jankowski, Marlena, and August. Rosie the elephant also plays a significant role in the story.
What makes Water for Elephants unique?
The musical’s unique blend of storytelling, music, and circus acts set it apart. It captures the spirit of the 1930s circus era while exploring deeper themes of love, loss, and belonging.
How does the music enhance the story in Water for Elephants?
The songs by PigPen Theatre Co incorporate folk, jazz, and circus music, enhancing the period feel and emotional depth of the story. Each song reflects the characters’ experiences and the mood of the scenes.
Is Water for Elephants suitable for all ages?
The musical contains some adult themes and might not be suitable for young children. It’s best to check the specific age recommendations for the performance you’re attending.
