Stomp is a percussion-based musical show that originated in Brighton, UK in the 1980s. It features performers using everyday objects like brooms, trash cans, and matchboxes to create energetic rhythms and sounds.
Stomp became a global phenomenon in the 1990s and 2000s with productions in dozens of countries. It enjoyed great popularity and critical acclaim. So is Stomp still going strong today in the 2020s? Let’s take a look at the history and current status of this iconic show.
Background on Stomp
Stomp was created in Brighton in 1991 by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas. Cresswell and McNicholas were street performers and formed a troupe called Pookiesnackenburger. This group experimented with making rhythms from everyday objects.
In 1991, Cresswell and McNicholas staged their first official Stomp show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This original Stomp show featured eight performers and used items like plastic bags, bins, brooms, and zippo lighters as instruments.
The unusual concept and high-energy performances made Stomp a hit. It won an Olivier Award at Edinburgh and transferred to London’s West End and then off-Broadway in New York in 1994.
Stomp Goes Global
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Stomp spread around the world. Some key milestones:
– Performed at renowned venues like the Acropolis in Athens and the Kremlin Palace in Moscow
– Featured during the 1996 Summer Olympics closing ceremonies in Atlanta
– Toured extensively across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia
– Permanent shows established in New York, London, Las Vegas, Tokyo, and other major cities
– Spawned several TV specials and films like Stomp Out Loud in 1997
So by the 2000s, Stomp had become a global cultural phenomenon seen by millions.
Stomp in the 2020s
Stomp entered its third decade in the 2020s. And it is still going strong around the world. Here is a look at where you can still see Stomp shows today:
Off-Broadway Production in New York
The original Stomp show in New York continues its run at the Orpheum Theatre. In 2022, Stomp celebrated 30 years Off-Broadway, making it one of the longest-running shows in NYC history. Performances continue today.
West End Production in London
Stomp remains a fixture in London’s West End at the Ambassadors Theatre, where it has played continuously since 2002.
North American Tours
Stomp tours extensively across the United States and Canada each year. It visits major markets like Chicago, Toronto, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
International Productions
There are permanent Stomp productions running today in Las Vegas, Tokyo, South Korea, Germany, France, and Spain. There are also touring versions that visit countries like Australia, Brazil, Israel, and China.
So Stomp remains a major presence and popular attraction in both its birthplace of the UK and worldwide.
Key Reasons for Stomp’s Longevity
What has allowed Stomp to endure for over 30 years and transcend cultural and language barriers? Here are some key factors:
– Universal concept – Rhythm and dance are universally appealing. Stomp needs no translation.
– Innovative format – Using everyday objects to make music was an exciting new theatrical idea.
– Captivating performances – Stomp features stellar drumming, dance, and physical comedy.
– Audience participation – Stomp gets the crowd involved. People are immersed in the experience.
– Continuous updates – New routines have been incorporated to keep Stomp fresh.
– Cultural impact – Stomp inspired similar shows and became ingrained in pop culture.
The Future of Stomp
Stomp shows no signs of stopping. Thanks to its universal appeal and high entertainment value, Stomp seems poised to continue thrilling audiences for years to come.
Cresswell and McNicholas remain actively involved. They will likely keep launching new productions globally and developing original routines to keep Stomp relevant.
There is also the possibility Stomp may someday make a Broadway debut. Its Off-Broadway incarnation has already outlasted most Broadway shows.
Some more predictions for Stomp’s future:
– Worldwide tours will continue reaching new markets.
– More permanent residencies will be possible in cities like Sydney, Toronto, and Berlin.
– Special versions may be created, like Stomp for Kids shows.
– Documentaries, books, or films celebrating Stomp’s legacy could come out for major anniversaries.
So for those who wonder if Stomp is still going, the answer is a resounding yes. The show remains a global phenomenon introducing new generations to its unique rhythmic magic. Stomp’s universal appeal should allow it to stomp forward indefinitely.
Conclusion
In summary, Stomp has come a long way from its origins as a street performance in Brighton. It has grown into one of the world’s most successful theatrical productions, dazzling audiences for over 30 years.
Stomp remains a prominent fixture in major theatre markets like London and New York while touring extensively across six continents. The show’s innovative concept, captivating performances, and cultural impact have allowed it to stand the test of time.
All signs point to Stomp continuing to stomp into the future with its timeless appeal. Thanks to its adaptability and the passion of its creators, Stomp seems poised to drum up rhythmic magic for audiences everywhere for many years to come.