STOMP, a combination of dance movement, percussion and comedy, is probably one of the most unusual shows ever to take to the London stage, and not just the London stage, but stages all over Europe, the United States, and as far afield as Kuala Lumpur. This unique dance percussion act celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2011.
STOMP was founded in 1991 by Luke Cresswell, a self-taught percussionist, and Steve McNicholas, an actor, director and composer. Cresswell and McNicholas had previously worked together as members of the band Pookiesnackenburger and are co-creators of ″Pandemonium: the Lost and Found Orchestra″.
In a strange way STOMP might be thought of as a musical, but it has no music or melodies in the conventional sense. Neither does it have words – no matter what your language, musical taste or skills, you will understand it.
STOMP = Rhythm!
Rhythms are made using every conceivable instrument, or actually, non-musical instrument imaginable. In an average week performers might use brooms, blocks of athlete's chalk, matchboxes, bags of sand, 6ft poles, metal lids, drumsticks, water, bananas, lengths of rubber tubing, a selection of dustbins, beer cans, paint cans, oil cans and toilet plungers!
STOMPING Around the World
When STOMP opened at Sadler's Wells Theatre in 1994 it won an Olivier Award for Best Choreography in a West End Show. The show is currently showing in London at the Ambassadors Theatre, and in New York at the Orpheum Theatre, where it opened in 1994. The New York production has received an Obie Award and a Drama Desk Award for Most Unique Theatre Experience.
In addition, there are several touring companies: three based in the UK and two in North America. Although shows are strictly choreographed each show, and every cast member, has its own unique flavour developed as the various cast members work together.
STOMP has also featured in several films and advertisements including Coca-Cola's "Ice Pick", numerous spots for Target stores in the US, Toyota in Japan, and Seat in Europe.
STOMP Workshops
STOMP takes rhythm beyond the confines of the theatre with weekend courses held in the UK, as well as courses for education establishments and organisations. The courses are open to anyone, with or without musical or performance skills. Workshops are tailor-made to the needs of the organisation with participants working on music, movement, numeracy, physical education, design and communication skills. All props and instruments are provided by the ″Stompers″.
Further information about performances and workshops, can be found at STOMP.
Frances Spiegel - Frances Spiegel, B.A. Hons. (Open)., Dip.Eur.Hum., read Art History/European Modern History at the Open University.
