Why to Go and See Stomp the Musical
The term stomp originally started with two buskers dazzling the streets of Brighton, UK with music, their catchy performance hooking in bystaders to stop, watch, and listen. Created by Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell in Brighton, UK, the music STOMP debuted within the Orpheum Theatre in February 1994. The music STOMP can also find some of its roots to Booth Theatres erected at the Village Fairs within the Middle Ages and Renaissance time period- an old custom in that age. Unlike any other musical, STOMP challenges the concept of what constitutes music. Eight nightly performers play basic and complex rhythms from everyday items, for example six foot poles, sand, brooms, lids, litres of water, and aluminum bins. Through dance and audio, the group collaborates with every other to play music, as well as supplying individual self-expression. STOMP is really a sensual blend of comedy, percussion, and energetic movements. The musical STOMP is the unique creation of Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell that captalizes on a ‘less is more’ premise. It’s a passionate production, not easily classified into a particular music or theatrical style. Via the lack of melodies, the audience listens to music getting broken down into basics as eight chiseled and energetic performers pound out rhythms with regular things: poles, drumsticks, match boxes, water, brooms, bins, and lids. Ironically, the regular quality of these objects catapults STOMP to an artistic level not matched by some other modern theatrical acts. The simplicity in which the cast manipulates their ‘instruments’ and body stretches the imagination into an exciting reality. It’s set design is flashy and multi-colored at times; an elaborate metal construction demonstrates instruments that are struck by performers harnessed from the ceiling. This restriction frees the cast to use their feet, legs, and arms to create loud group rhythms which shake the rafters and audience with its intense, tribal rhythms. These in-your-face cadences are a potent avenue for person and collective expression, leaving numerous on the edge of their seats. STOMP’s shortage of fancy performer clothing keeps the emphasis on what truly counts: dance moves and music rhythms, which become more complicated with every subsequent scene. Subtlety is also used to balance these raw rhythms.One scene is centered around performers tapping six foot poles, as they stealthily circle the stage, nearly preying on each other with their sly moves and rhythms. Their sense of correlation is palpable and sensual, cast eye contact igniting the anticipation, as you almost find yourself wondering who is going to ‘win’ at this musical game. Yet, everyone wins, the audience even asked into the overall performance via a cast member who initiates a clap-and-response session. Roughly two hours in duration, STOMP keeps one’s attention, making you wonder how items usually reserved for math difficulties, cleaning, and construction projects can entertain and produce a powerful musical group dynamic. In this age of modern technology, STOMP is a refreshing blend of primal instincts meeting music genious, reminding us of the music and rhythmic potential right under our noses. Find much more info about the music and buyStomp Tickets online