Broadway is set to shimmer with a new star as Grant Gustin, beloved for his roles in “The Flash” and “Glee,” is poised to debut on the great white way. Gustin is stepping into the spotlight as Jacob in the much-anticipated musical “Water for Elephants,” based on Sara Gruen’s acclaimed novel. Alongside him, Isabelle McCalla celebrated for her performances in “The Prom” and “Shucked,” will enchant audiences as Marlena. The stage will come alive at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre with previews beginning February 24, and the grand opening night is slated for March 21.
Gustin’s childhood aspirations are coming to fruition as he told EW, “This was my original dream as a kid… It’s very surreal and exciting and terrifying and all the appropriate emotions. I’m beyond thrilled to join the company.” His role as Jacob is a deep dive into the life of a young man who finds love and loss amidst the vibrant chaos of a travelling circus, a character that resonates with Gustin’s journey as an actor.
Isabelle McCalla echoes the sentiment of landing a dream role, expressing her connection to Marlena’s character, “She’s intuitive, loving, resilient… It’s the role of a lifetime!” The musical promises to be an electrifying showcase of circus artistry set to a score by PigPen Theater Company that Gustin describes as “incredible and unique.”
Reflecting on the challenges and excitement of returning to singing, Gustin admits to the learning curve he’s faced after a 13-year hiatus from formal voice training. The score presents him with a challenging but rewarding opportunity to stretch his vocal abilities.
Gustin’s portrayal of Jacob offers shades of his previous characters, exploring themes of love, loss, and the essence of character in the face of adversity. The romantic narrative weaves a poignant tale that Gustin finds both beautiful and heartbreaking.
As he anticipates the rigorous demands of a Broadway run, Gustin jokingly wishes for “super vocal powers” to sustain his performance night after night, emphasizing the discipline required for such an endeavour.
The debut of “Water for Elephants” on Broadway is not only a personal milestone for Gustin but also a testament to the enduring allure of the stage. It’s a moment where dreams are realized, and the narrative of perseverance and passion resonates with audiences and performers alike. Gustin’s leap from screen to stage is a dazzling reminder of Broadway’s magic, inviting us all to witness the unfolding of a remarkable performance.