Stomp's 30 anniversary tour takes Rat- a- Tat -Tat to the next
level. This show invents ways to make everything and anything an instrument. Since
the beginning of time, man has used things to create a beat and music. This show
without a spoken word, produces a universal language with an amazing collage of
rhythms.
Reflection.
Stomp has made eight tours in Pittsburgh. In 2017 I called this show a non-stop rhythmic experience (see Day 207). It had all that but this time, I noticed the way Stomp brought everyone together no matter what their background. The audience was a kaleidoscope of ages and races that laughed, clapped and whoop and hollered throughout the show. A beat is so basic but can transcend all obstacles to entertain. There are brooms swishing, hands clapping, body beating, pipes bouncing and more that keeps us all moving with the beat.
Pantomime adds some comic relief. The audience laughed when a Waldo-like character was just one step behind, one bounce late or got the short end of the stick (literally.)
The performers use percussion and simultaneously, stomp, jump,
twist and use aerobatics as they move across the stage. They are in constant motion. It’s an amazing feat of athleticism. I thought,
“how is this possible when I cannot pat my head and rub my stomach at the same
time!”
Stomp astonishes by creating rhythms with inner-tubes, shopping carts and kitchen sinks. Yes, I said kitchen sinks. The granddaddy of them all, drumming on garbage cans and clashing of lids, is saved for the end- a crescendo that bursts with energy like the rhythms at a rock concert.
Stomp is a show made from anything and everything that transcends
all languages to unite. We are all moved by the sounds like the beat of our hearts which is something innate in us all.
Spiritual reflection
Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! Palms 133:1