Using everyday items such as brooms and buckets, the eight performers who make up STOMP create their own soundtrack, a hybrid of noise that form a melody which will see you tapping your feet in no time. Incredibly theatrical, no words are spoken for the duration of the performance yet the cast are able to convey emotion and humour through actions, expression and of course, sound.
In particular the scene involving pieces of wooden dowel is beautifully choreographed, with mock fights creating a fantastic sound and not a single performer missing a step. The energy coming off the stage was overwhelming and it was clear that they were having an absolute blast. This energy was contagious and the audience were clapping and yelling words of encouragement.
The most astounding part of STOMP is the performers ability to take every day, mundane objects and create music. I will never look at my broom in the same way again. Suddenly household chores took on a whole new light, and I almost eagerly anticipated my next trip to the supermarket and the wondrous noises I could create with the trolley as I mindlessly scan the aisle. The scene where the group all coughed and spluttered while rustling their newspapers gave my morning commute a whole new perspective. Perhaps those around me aren’t disgusting people in need of a tissue, perhaps they are musicians in the making. Important thing to remember though – eight people coughing in unison on a stage in a theatre is creative. One person doing it in your ear on the train is just rude.
Despite the shouty caps title, not all the sounds created in STOMP are enormous crescendos, some of the most memorable moments were attained through delicate snippets. As the cast stand in a line on the darkened stage all you can see are the flames of lighters flickering on and off, and all you can hear is the click as it opens and closes. The room is still, the audience hushed and the visual beauty of the moment engulfs the theatre. Far less in your face than other moments, but no less dramatic.
The quote of the night came from a young boy in the row in front – “That sounds like farts” – all I can say is he must have some pretty harmonious farts.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
STOMP runs at the Capitol Theatre until 5 August 2018. For more information and to buy tickets here to the Capitol Theatre website. Reviewer attended on 31 July.
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