I arrived in a bracingly chilly New York this afternoon after an uneventful flight — always a plus. My first show of the trip was a solid winner, an unlikely stage musical version of Water for Elephants, based on the cult favorite 2006 novel by Sara Gruen and the subsequent 2011 movie version.
I call it unlikely because a crucial character is a huge pachyderm named Rosie, but bringing her to life proves no problem for director Jessica Stone (Kimberly Akimbo), adapter Rick Elice (Jersey Boys) and especially the committee of puppet designers who conjure up Rosie first in dismembered body parts and eventually in her mammoth glory. There are also human performers and they are quite terrific, but it’s Rosie who willl steal your heart.
Hap Erstein
Next is a two-show day, two productions in final previews, a musical version of The Great Gatsby and a new Amy Herzog play, Mary Jane, starring Rachel McAdams.