Water For Elephants
Phoenix

About Water for Elephants: The Musical

Water for Elephants made its Broadway debut in 2024 and immediately became one of the most talked-about new musicals of the season. The show earned seven Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, Best Direction for Jessica Stone, Best Book for Rick Elice, Best Scenic Design for Takeshi Kata, Best Costume Design for David Israel Reynoso, Best Lighting Design for Bradley King and David Bengali, and Best Choreography for Jesse Robb and Shana Carroll. The production features an original score by the innovative folk-theater collective PigPen Theatre Co., whose music blends Americana, folk, and theatrical styles into something entirely unique.

Set during the Great Depression, the musical follows Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student whose life is upended when he joins the struggling Benzini Brothers circus. There he meets Marlena, the beautiful star performer married to the volatile circus boss August, and Rosie, a seemingly untrainable elephant who becomes the key to saving the show. What makes Water for Elephants truly special on stage is its groundbreaking use of puppetry and circus arts — designed by Ray Wetmore, JR Goodman, and Camille Labarre — which bring the animals and the world of the traveling circus to life in ways that are both magical and deeply moving. The production integrates aerial work, acrobatics, and large-scale puppets seamlessly into the storytelling.

The show's journey from page to stage has been remarkable. Sara Gruen's 2006 novel spent months on the bestseller lists and was adapted into a 2011 film. The musical adaptation, which premiered at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta before transferring to Broadway, reimagines the story with an emphasis on spectacle, emotion, and the power of live performance. Critics have praised the way the musical captures both the gritty reality and the romantic magic of circus life, with scenic designer Takeshi Kata creating a transformative set that shifts between the dusty roads of Depression-era America and the dazzling big top.

ASU Gammage in Tempe provides an ideal home for this production. Frank Lloyd Wright's masterful design features a deep stage and excellent acoustics that will showcase the show's ambitious staging and rich musical score. Located at 1200 South Forest Avenue on the Arizona State University campus, the venue is just minutes from downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale, with plenty of dining options along nearby Mill Avenue. The eight-performance run from October 27 through November 1, 2026 includes both evening and matinee shows.

For the latest tour dates and production details, visit the official Water for Elephants website. Follow Water for Elephants on Instagram for cast updates, behind-the-scenes content, and tour news.

How to Buy Water for Elephants Phoenix Tickets on BigStub

Step 1: Browse Your Ticket Options

Water for Elephants tickets at ASU Gammage may be available through the ASU Gammage box office, the official Water for Elephants website, and third-party resale marketplaces. On BigStub.com or WaterForElephantsPhoenix.com, you can browse all 8 performances with real-time pricing from verified resale sellers — a great option if your preferred showtime is sold out through primary channels.

Step 2: Choose Your Performance Date

Select the date and time that works best for you. Water for Elephants runs at ASU Gammage from October 27 through November 1, 2026, with both evening and matinee performances. This is a limited one-week engagement, so availability may be tighter than longer-running shows.

Step 3: Select Your Seats

Browse the available seating options. ASU Gammage offers orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony seating, all with excellent sightlines thanks to Frank Lloyd Wright's thoughtful design. For Water for Elephants, orchestra seats provide the most immersive view of the show's innovative puppetry and circus arts sequences.

Step 4: Complete Your Secure Checkout

Proceed to BigStub's secure checkout. Every transaction is protected by BigStub's buyer guarantee, ensuring your tickets are authentic and delivered in time. With over 20 years of experience and the highest Trustpilot rating among ticket resellers, you can buy with complete confidence.

Step 5: Enjoy the Show

Arrive at ASU Gammage at 1200 South Forest Avenue in Tempe ready for an unforgettable evening. Check the ASU Gammage visitor guide for parking information, dining options, and venue policies before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water for Elephants in Phoenix

When is Water for Elephants playing in Phoenix?

Water for Elephants runs at ASU Gammage in Tempe, AZ (the Phoenix metro area) from October 27 through November 1, 2026, with 8 scheduled performances including evening and matinee showtimes.

Where is Water for Elephants performed in Phoenix?

Water for Elephants is performed at ASU Gammage, located at 1200 South Forest Avenue on the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, Arizona. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the venue seats approximately 3,000 guests.

How do I buy Water for Elephants Phoenix tickets?

Tickets are available through the ASU Gammage box office at asugammage.com, the official Water for Elephants website, and other authorized sellers. You can also find verified resale tickets on BigStub.com or WaterForElephantsPhoenix.com, which is especially useful if performances sell out through primary channels.

What is Water for Elephants about?

Water for Elephants is a musical based on Sara Gruen's bestselling novel. Set during the Great Depression, it follows a young veterinary student who joins a traveling circus and falls in love with the star performer. The show features innovative puppetry, circus arts, and a unique folk-inspired score by PigPen Theatre Co.

Did Water for Elephants win any Tony Awards?

Water for Elephants received seven Tony Award nominations in 2024, including Best Musical, Best Direction, Best Book, Best Scenic Design, Best Costume Design, Best Lighting Design, and Best Choreography. The show was widely praised by critics and audiences during its Broadway run.

What is BigStub?

BigStub is a trusted third-party ticket resale marketplace — not the official ticket seller. With over 20 years of experience and the highest Trustpilot rating in the industry, BigStub connects buyers with verified resale sellers. Every purchase is backed by BigStub's buyer guarantee and dedicated customer service.

Where else can I buy Water for Elephants Phoenix tickets?

In addition to BigStub, tickets may be available directly through the ASU Gammage box office at asugammage.com, the official Water for Elephants tour site, and other authorized ticket outlets. BigStub specializes in resale tickets, which can be helpful when shows sell out or when you want specific seating locations.

Is there parking at ASU Gammage?

Yes. ASU Gammage offers several parking options on and near the Arizona State University campus. Parking lots are available within walking distance of the venue. Visit asugammage.com for detailed parking maps and directions.

How long is Water for Elephants?

Water for Elephants runs approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission. The show features spectacular puppetry, circus arts, aerial work, and acrobatics throughout both acts.

Is Water for Elephants appropriate for children?

Water for Elephants is generally suitable for ages 10 and up. The show contains some dramatic themes related to the Depression era, but the stunning puppetry and circus elements appeal to a wide range of audiences. Check ASU Gammage's website for specific age policies.

Is Water for Elephants part of the ASU Gammage Broadway season?

Yes. Water for Elephants is one of eight shows in ASU Gammage's 2026-2027 Desert Financial Broadway Across America season. Season subscription packages are available through asugammage.com.

Are matinee performances available?

Yes. The Water for Elephants run at ASU Gammage includes both evening and matinee performances. Check the full schedule on the ASU Gammage website or BigStub for available dates and times.