Why to Go and See Stomp the Musical
Posted in Hall Of Recreation, The Music Way on August 19th, 2010The expression stomp at first started with two buskers dazzling the streets of Brighton, UK with audio, their catchy performance hooking in bystaders to stop, watch, and listen. Created by Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell in Brighton, UK, the musical STOMP debuted in the Orpheum Theatre in February 1994. The music STOMP can also trace some of its roots to Booth Theatres erected at the Village Fairs in the Middle Ages and Renaissance time period- an old custom in that age. As opposed to any other music, STOMP challenges the idea of what constitutes audio. Eight nightly performers play simple and complex rhythms from every day items, for example six foot poles, sand, brooms, lids, litres of water, and aluminum bins. Via dance and audio, the group collaborates with every other to play audio, as well as providing individual self-expression. STOMP is really a sensual blend of comedy, percussion, and dynamic movements. The music STOMP is the unique construction of Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell that captalizes on a ‘less is more’ philosophy. It’s a passionate production, not effortlessly classified into a particular music or theatrical genre. 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 high quality of these items 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 a thrilling reality. Their set design is flashy and multi-colored at times; an elaborate metal construction demonstrates instruments which 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 that shake the rafters and audience with their intense, tribal rhythms. These in-your-face cadences are a powerful avenue for individual and collective expression, leaving many on the edge of their seats. STOMP’s absence of fancy performer outfits keeps the emphasis on what really counts: dance moves and music rhythms, which become more intricate with every subsequent scene. Subtlety is also used to balance out these raw rhythms.One scene is structured 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 interconnection is palpable and sensual, cast eye contact stimulating the anticipation, as you nearly discover yourself wondering who is going to ‘win’ at this music game. Yet, everybody wins, the audience even asked into the 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 problems, cleaning, and construction projects can entertain and produce a powerful music group dynamic. In this age of modern technology, STOMP is really a refreshing blend of primal instincts meeting music genious, reminding us of the music and rhythmic potential correct under our noses. Discover more information about the musical and buyStomp Tickets online