Why to Go and See Stomp the Music
22 August 2010The expression stomp at first started with two buskers entertaining the streets of Brighton, UK with music, their catchy performance hooking in bystaders to stop, observe, and listen. Created by Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell in Brighton, UK, the music STOMP debuted in the Orpheum Theatre in February 1994. The musical STOMP can also find some of its roots to Booth Theatres erected at the Village Fairs in the Middle Ages and Renaissance period- an old custom in that period. As opposed to any other music, STOMP pushes the idea of what constitutes music. Eight nightly performers play basic and complex rhythms from every day objects, such as six foot poles, sand, brooms, lids, litres of water, and aluminum bins. Via dance and audio, the group collaborates with each other to play audio, as well as giving person self-expression. STOMP is really a sensual blend of comedy, percussion, and energetic movements. The music 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 musical or theatrical type. Via the absence of melodies, the audience listens to music obtaining broken down into basics as eight chiseled and dynamic performers pound out rhythms with common things: poles, drumsticks, match boxes, water, brooms, bins, and lids. Ironically, the ordinary high quality of these items catapults STOMP to an artistic level not matched by other modern theatrical acts. The ease in which the cast manipulates their ‘instruments’ and body expands the imagination into a fantastic reality. It’s set design is flashy and multi-colored at times; a more elaborate metal construction showcases 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 that shake the rafters and audience with the intense, tribal rhythms. These in-your-face cadences are a powerful avenue for person and collective expression, leaving numerous on the edge of their seats. STOMP’s shortage of fancy performer clothes keeps the emphasis on what really counts: dance moves and musical rhythms, which become more complicated with each subsequent scene. Subtlety is also utilized 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 one another with their moves and rhythms. Their sense of interconnection is palpable and sensual, cast eye contact igniting the anticipation, as you almost find yourself wondering who is going to ‘win’ at this music game. Yet, everyone wins, the audience even invited into the overall performance through a cast member who initiates a clap-and-response session. Around 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 musical group dynamic. In this age of modern technology, STOMP is really a refreshing blend of primal instincts meeting music genious, reminding us of the musical and rhythmic potential right under our noses. Find more information about the musical and buyStomp Tickets online
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