I’ve always been a real sucker for the circus. And while a spacious proscenium theater doesn’t quite capture the rustic vibe of the big top, you can bet I’ll be at TPAC as the national tour of Water for Elephants arrives on May 12. Based on Sara Gruen’s bestselling 2006 novel, the story follows a young veterinary student during the Great Depression who hops a train and stumbles into an unexpected adventure with the ragtag traveling Benzini Brothers Circus. With music and lyrics by indie-rock theater collective PigPen Theatre Co. and a book by Rick Elice (Jersey Boys; The Addams Family), Water for Elephants’ simple memory-play approach is elevated by all manner of circus magic — including daring aerialists, acrobats, contortionists and more. Audiences can also look forward to some stunning design elements, from Bradley King’s evocative lighting to David I. Reynoso’s dazzling costumes. But I think I’m most excited to check out the life-size animal puppets — including dear Rosie, the elephant — courtesy of Ray Wetmore, J.R. Goodman and Camille Labarre. Be sure to keep an eye out for Belmont grad Bradley Parrish, who’s making his national tour debut with the company.
May 12-17 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall
505 Deaderick St.
