Why to Go and See Stomp the Music
Wednesday, August 25th, 2010The phrase stomp initially started with two buskers dazzling the streets of Brighton, UK with audio, their catchy overall performance hooking in bystaders to stop, watch, and listen. Created by Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell in Brighton, UK, the music STOMP debuted in the Orpheum Theatre in February 1994. The music STOMP can also trace several of its roots to Booth Theatres erected at the Village Fairs within the Middle Ages and Renaissance time period- an old custom in that time. Unlike any other music, STOMP pushes the idea of what constitutes music. Eight nightly performers play simple and complex rhythms from every day items, such as six foot poles, sand, brooms, lids, litres of water, and aluminum bins. Through dance and music, the group collaborates with every other to play music, too as supplying individual self-expression. STOMP is really a sensual blend of comedy, percussion, and energetic movements. The music STOMP is the unique design of Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell that captalizes on a ‘less is more’ philosophy. It is a passionate production, not easily classified into a particular music or theatrical style. Via the lack of melodies, the audience listens to audio getting broken down into basics as eight chiseled and dynamic performers pound out rhythms with ordinary things: poles, drumsticks, match boxes, water, brooms, bins, and lids. Ironically, the ordinary high quality of these objects catapults STOMP to an artistic level unmatched by some other modern theatrical acts. The ease in which the cast manipulates their ‘instruments’ and body stretches the imagination into an exciting reality. The set design is flashy and multi-colored at times; an elaborate metal construction highlights instruments which are struck by performers harnessed from the ceiling. This restriction frees the cast to use their feet, legs, and arms to produce loud group rhythms that shake the rafters and audience with the 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 absence of fancy performer garments keeps the focus on what truly counts: dance moves and music rhythms, which turn out to be more complex 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 one another with their sly moves and rhythms. Their sense of interconnection is palpable and sensual, cast eye contact stimulating the anticipation, as you nearly find yourself wondering who is going to ‘win’ at this music game. Yet, everyone wins, the audience even asked into the performance via a cast member who initiates a clap-and-response session. Approximately two hours in duration, STOMP keeps one’s attention, making you wonder how items generally reserved for math problems, cleaning, and construction projects can entertain and create a powerful musical group dynamic. In this age of modern technology, STOMP is a refreshing blend of primal instincts meeting musical genious, reminding us of the music and rhythmic potential correct under our noses. Discover much more info about the musical and buyStomp Tickets online