Can you tell us a little about the show and your role?
The story of WATER FOR ELEPHANTS follows a young man named Jacob, living in the United States during the Great Depression. He loses everything, and hops on board a train, which ends up being a circus train - the Benzini Brother’s Most Spectacular Show on Earth! At the circus, Jacob meets a whole host of characters, including August, the ringmaster of the circus and the villain of the story.
How was the rehearsal process?
We rehearsed in NYC during summer 2025, in a studio that had spaces not only for music, acting, and choreography work, but also full circus rigging available for our acrobats, tumblers, and other circus artists. We moved to Baltimore, MD in September of 2025 to do tech rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and launch the tour. We’ve been on the road ever since!
Any favorite spots on the road?
For two years before this, I toured with CHICAGO the musical, so it’s been fun to revisit some of the same touring houses with this show that I’ve played before. Denver, New Orleans, and Baltimore are some highlights in that department!
Do you have a pre show ritual or warmup?
Everyone’s pre-show routine is different. I feel best going into the show when I’ve done a few things throughout the day to ground myself physically and mentally. A workout, some journaling and meditation, and then a vocal warm up right before going on stage are all parts of my routine!
Do you have a favorite moment in this show?
I love The Grand Spec! It’s a number at the end of Act 1 where we show the audience what the full Benzini Brothers circus looks like. Acrobats, tumblers, clowns, singers and dancers, animal puppets, the works!
Where are you from originally?
I grew up on a farm just outside of Oshkosh, WI. My parents and several siblings still live in Oshkosh, and I love going back to visit whenever I can. Life on the road can feel so transient, and being with my family - in Oshkosh or elsewhere - is the thing that most feels like home.
How did you get into the performing arts?
My sister dragged me along to auditions for OKLAHOMA the musical when I was 13 - and I’m so glad she did! I kept doing local youth theatre shows throughout middle school and high school, and then attended Viterbo University in WI, where I studied musical theatre!
First role, professional or amateur?
My first role ever was Old Man Carnes in OKLAHOMA when I was 13 years old. My first role after graduating college was Gaston in a small regional production of BEAUTY AND BEAST. Gaston is a role I’ve played several times in my life (most recently at Walt Disney World in Florida), and I hope to play it again!
Any advice for young performers?
Don’t be afraid to suck for a while! I was more or less tone deaf when I started singing, and I was a terrible actor. I loved telling stories and connecting with people through theatre, so I stuck it out. I’m so grateful that I did! The goal is to challenge yourself and see yourself grow. If you love it, stick with it!
Is this your first time in Cleveland?
Yes it is, and I’m loving it! Love the beautiful old architecture downtown, and Playhouse Square is so cool. Rivals most other theatre districts that I’ve seen around the country!
Why should audiences come see this production?
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS is a musical that truly has something for everyone. It has a beautiful score that combines elements of bluegrass, pop, and traditional musical theatre. It has a heart warming story that is all about community and finding your place in the world. Stunning circus spectacle, great choreography, beautiful puppets … no matter what you come to the theatre for, you will find it (and more) in WATER FOR ELEPHANTS!