Stomp

Published Monday 16 February 2004 at 13:30 by Neil Dowden

Created and directed by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, this unique percussion and dance show has evolved over the last 11 years from humble street theatre in Brighton into a worldwide, multimedia sensation. It is founded on the simple idea of using ordinary objects to create extraordinary rhythms, transforming the routines of everyday life into a dynamic celebration of sound and movement.

In an industrial workyard, eight high-energy performers in heavy boots, dungarees and singlets exploit the likes of brooms, bins, plungers, plastic bags, matchboxes and lighters for every pulse of rhythmic vitality. This is literally kitchen sink theatre.

Although overall the decibel count is impressively high, there are plenty of quieter moments with equal impact, such as the unearthly sounds produced wtih rubber hoses. There is a distinct tribal quality in the dance where poles are drummed on the stage, while the climactic scene involving dustbin lids as shields is a sort of gladiatorial combat for garbage men.

There may be no story or speech - apart from a few interchanges with the audience - but there is certainly drama and humour. And this riot of footstomping and shoe-shuffling is as much about precision as perspiration. Stomp makes us aware that we are surrounded by interesting sounds which we usually ignore - these we may hear but don’t listen to. This show opens our ears. In keeping with a TV commercial for a well-known lager, Stomp refreshes parts other shows cannot reach.

This show was reviewed prior to the website launch. A new review may be pending.