The Cast of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, Photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade

The Benzini Brothers boast that they are the home of the “Most Spectacular Show on Earth.” However, PigPen Theatre Co. and Rick Elice’s musical adaptation of Sara Gruen’s 2006 novel “Water for Elephants” certainly delivers dazzling effects and high-flying tricks, but the lackluster script and score make the production ultimately fall flat.

…dazzling effects and high-flying tricks…highly talented ensemble of acrobats, contortionists, and aerialists.

Told as a life story, we first meet an elderly Jacob Jankowski (who is in his 90s in the book but very much not in his 90s in the musical) when he leaves his visits O’Brien’s One-Ring Circus from his assisted-living home. The visit brings back memories of his time working as the vet for the Benzini Brothers Circus. Through older Jacob’s recollections, we meet his younger self and a myriad of circus performers and animals, an abusive ringleader, and a tantalizing star. This fantastical circus promises Jacob a life beyond his wildest dreams—that is, if Rosie the Elephant can rise to the occasion.

While the plot is relatively straightforward, the show introduces many story threads that are later abandoned. For example, it is established early on that August (a towering Connor Sullivan), the ringleader, is a con man, even performing a high-energy ensemble number, “The Lion Has Got No Teeth,” to drive the point home. After that number, the idea of August as a con man is never mentioned again. Yes, he is a villain, but he isn’t conning anyone. The musical overall feels rushed in its character development and, instead, prioritizes onstage acrobatics.

Breathing extraordinary life into the show is the highly talented ensemble of acrobats, contortionists, and aerialists. The exceptional physicality of the entire company—especially Nancy Luna, Yves Artières, Fran Álvarez Jara, Ella Huestis, Serafina Walker, and John Neurohr—is worth the price of admission alone. Their jaw-dropping circus acts (designed by Shana Carroll and Antoine Boissereau) are out of this world.

Effortlessly adding to the magic of the circus was the colorful lighting design by Bradley King, striking costumes by David I. Reynoso, and, of course, puppets. The larger-than-life reveal of the beautifully designed Rosie, the elephant puppet, by Ray Wetmore, JR Goodman, and Camille LaBarre (and excellently operated by Huestis, Neurohr, Bradley Parris, Carl Robinett, and Grant Huneycutt) was a show-stopping moment.

Leading this talented troupe are Zachary Keller as young Jacob and Helen Krushinski as Marlena. The pair’s chemistry and vocal prowess bring the emotional intensity needed to propel the story forward. Each gets a moment in the spotlight, with Keller especially shining in “Silver Stars” and Krushinski’s gorgeous vocals highlighted in “Easy,” paired with an incredible aerial performance by Artières. Kudos are also due to Javier Garcia (Camel), Tyler West (Walter), and Huneycutt (Wade) for their standout performances.

While featuring an incredible, multi-talented cast, “Water for Elephants” falters in its book and score and never quite manages to soar.

Running Time: Two hours and 20 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.