Why to Go and See Stomp the Musical
August 26th, 2010The expression stomp initially began 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 within the Orpheum Theatre in February 1994. The musical STOMP can also find some of its roots to Booth Theatres erected at the Village Fairs within the Middle Ages and Renaissance period- an old custom in that period. Unlike any other music, STOMP challenges the idea of what constitutes music. Eight nightly performers play basic and complex rhythms from everyday objects, 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 music, too as providing person self-expression. STOMP is really a sensual blend of comedy, percussion, and dynamic movements. The musical STOMP is the unique creation of Steven McNichols and Luke Cresswell that captalizes on a ‘less is more’ philosophy. It’s a passionate production, not easily classified into a particular music or theatrical genre. Via the absence of melodies, the audience listens to audio obtaining broken down into basics as eight chiseled and energetic performers pound out rhythms with common items: poles, drumsticks, match boxes, water, brooms, bins, and lids. Ironically, the regular quality of these things catapults STOMP to an artistic level unmatched by some other modern theatrical acts. The ease in which the cast manipulates their ‘instruments’ and body expands the imagination into a fantastic reality. Their set design is flashy and vibrant at times; an elaborate metal construction displays 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 it’s intense, tribal rhythms. These in-your-face cadences are a potent avenue for person and collective expression, leaving many on the edge of their seats. STOMP’s lack of fancy performer clothing keeps the emphasis on what really counts: dance moves and music rhythms, which become much more complex with every subsequent scene. Subtlety is also used to stabilize these raw rhythms.One scene is structured around performers tapping six foot poles, as they stealthily circuit the stage, nearly preying on each other with their moves and rhythms. Their sense of correlation is palpable and sensual, cast eye contact stimulating the expectation, as you almost find yourself asking yourself who is going to ‘win’ at this musical game. Yet, everyone wins, the audience even invited into the performance through 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 usually reserved for math problems, cleaning, and construction projects can entertain and create a powerful music group dynamic. In this age of modern technology, STOMP is really a refreshing blend of primal instincts meeting musical genious, reminding us of the musical and rhythmic potential correct under our noses. Find more info about the musical and buyStomp Tickets online
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