Rich Entertainment Group (REG) celebrates its latest production in association with Grove Entertainment, WATER FOR ELEPHANTS (WFE). Based on the best-selling novel, WFE opened on Broadway on March 21 to rave reviews, including a Critic’s Pick by the New York Times. If you’re planning a trip to New York and want to be among the first to see the show the NYT calls a “gorgeously imaginative Broadway musical,” read on for show details, ticket information and travel suggestions from experts at The Travel Team.
The Circus Comes to Broadway
The musical, which opened at the Imperial Theatre in March 2024, follows a young veterinarian, Jacob Jankowski, who hops a train and finds a new home among the crew of the Benzini Brothers traveling circus. Through mesmerizing stagecraft, dazzling stunts, a soaring score and authentic performances, audiences will experience Jacob’s moving journey toward a life and a love he never imagined.
The show is directed by Tony Award nominee Jessica Stone, with a book by three-time Tony nominee Rick Elice, and music and lyrics by PigPen Theatre Co. For a musical sneak peek at WATER FOR ELEPHANTS, check out this toe-tapping jam session featuring PigPen composers and lyricists.
Follow the show on Instagram @w4emusical and see clips from its electrifying opening night on Broadway! For ticket information and all the latest promotions, click here.
A Guide to NYC’s Finest Hotels and Restaurants in the Theatre District
Let The Travel Team (TTT) help plan your Broadway getaway; call 716.862.7731 when you’re ready to speak with a leisure advisor. In addition to the recommendations below, The Travel Team works with companies who can put together pre-planned itineraries that can include bus tours, attraction passes, and walking and food tasting tours.
The Travel Team curated this list of premier accommodations in NYC:
- The Times Square EDITION: This modern oasis boasts four distinct dining venues helmed by Michelin-starred chef, John Fraser, among other high-end details ranging from designer bedding to deep soaking tubs – all within walking distance to the city’s best theaters, galleries, and restaurants. Guests booking through TTT will receive these additional amenities:
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
- $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square: From their outdoor terrace overlooking the city, to their sky lobby bar and lounge, enjoy exciting views from the heart of New York.
- New York Marriott Marquis: Iconic hotel in a prime location nestled in the heart of Times Square
- Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square: Situated in Manhattan’s renowned “Restaurant Row” surrounded by Broadway’s most famous theatres.
Restaurant Recommendations from The Travel Team:
- Glass House Tavern offers a contemporary American menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with hints of Italian flair. It’s a favorite among Broadway stars – perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to be seated next to one!
- Le Rivage’s cozy atmosphere and mouth-watering, traditional French cuisine make this pre-theater dinner spot a favorite. Located in the heart of the Theater District, it offers a great selection of entrees at unbeatable prices.
- La Masseria brings a little piece of Italy to the heart of Manhattan. Classic dishes made with fresh ingredients capture the true essence of a farm-to-table dining experience. There’s an extensive wine list to complement the food and an epic cheesecake!
- Yakitori Torishin delivers an authentic, Tokyo style yakitori experiences and meals include performances of this ancient technique by master chefs. They also offer one of the most extensive sake menus in all of New York.
- Dallas BBQ Times Square is the place to get your hands dirty while enjoying wings, BBQ ribs, and burgers, oh my! Save your appetite for after the Broadway show and enjoy Dallas BBQ’s late night hours.
- Boulud Sud offers up a true taste of the Mediterranean, from the shores of Southern France to the coast of North Africa. The flavors and colorful, charming atmosphere have kept more than a few patrons past curtain call.
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS also has restaurant partners offering discounts to patrons that show a WFE ticket stub, including Dolly Varden, Lady Blue and PS Kitchen. To learn more about these partners and promotions, click here.
Did You Know?
Rich Entertainment Group made its Broadway debut with Chaplin in 2012. In association with Grove Entertainment, REG has produced several critically acclaimed Broadway shows, including CATS, The Band’s Visit, Escape to Margaritaville, On Your Feet!, Company, Diana: A True Musical Story, and Good Night, Oscar.