Broadway’s Water for Elephants Arrives at the Orpheum This March 3–8

The acclaimed new Broadway musical Water for Elephants is coming to Minneapolis for a limited time at the Orpheum Theatre from March 3–8, 2026. The show brings Sara Gruen’s bestselling 2006 novel to life in a visually stunning, emotionally rich production that critics have praised as thrilling and imaginative.

Audiences may already know the story from the 2011 film adaptation. Still, the Broadway version, which debuted in 2024, reimagines the tale with breathtaking stagecraft, circus artistry, and a heartfelt original musical score. Unlike the film, which is not a musical, the stage production introduces entirely new music that deepens the emotional impact and brings the circus world to life in a way only theater can. The result is a fresh, immersive experience that feels both nostalgic and brand new.

Set in Depression-era America, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who hops a train after a personal tragedy and finds himself unexpectedly joining a traveling circus. There, he discovers companionship, purpose, and a surprising new love, all seen through the eyes of his older self, and reflecting on the choices that shaped his life.

Performances run daily throughout the week, with evening and matinee options from March 3–8. Whether you’re a fan of the book, the film, musical theatre, or simply love a beautifully told story, Water for Elephants offers an unforgettable night. You can find tickets for the show here.