Broadway musical 'Water for Elephants' Directed by Jessica Stone Receives Tony Award Nominations

In the Broadway musical "Water for Elephants," the director, Jessica Stone, wanted to surprise the audience by revealing the full elephant at the end of Act 1. She aimed to make it special and captivating. Stone's show received seven Tony Award nominations, including one for best new musical. She successfully combined elements of circus into the Broadway production. To ensure safety and flexibility in the circus scenes, Stone emphasized the need for some room for adjustments. This allowed the performers to execute their acts smoothly. The playwright, Rick Elice, praised Stone's creativity and humor, highlighting her ability to bring fresh perspectives to the production. Stone's approach to storytelling involves reflecting on life experiences and decisions. She believes in creating emotional depth in performances, where moments of pain can coexist with moments of joy. Stone is part of a group of female directors who made a significant impact on Broadway this year, with seven women receiving nominations for directing musicals and plays. The development of the elephant reveal took two years of meticulous planning and collaboration. Stone credits the producers for supporting her team throughout the creative process. The success of "Water for Elephants" showcases Stone's dedication to delivering a unique and memorable theatrical experience.