STOMP to Return to Gallo Center, 10/19-20

More than 4,500 people saw "STOMP" when it came to the Gallo Center for the Arts for five performances in May 2009. Now this international percussion sensation is returning to the performing arts center October 19 and 20 for three performances featuring what the producers promise are "explosive new surprises."

The performances are at 3 pm and 8 pm on Saturday, October 19, and at 2 pm on Sunday, October 20. Tickets range in price from $29 to $99, and may be purchased online at www.galloarts.org, by calling (209) 338-2100, or from the Gallo Center ticket office, 1000 I Street in downtown Modesto. Groups of 15 people or more receive a 15% discount on tickets. For group sales information, call (209) 338-5062.

>From its beginnings as a street performance in the United Kingdom, "STOMP" has been performed in more than 50 countries and in front of more than 24 million people.

Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas,"STOMP" has four global touring productions in addition to the ongoing sell-out production at New York's Orpheum Theatre and a permanent London company. Throughout its life, the show has continued to change by creating new material; this year "STOMP" incorporated an additional two new set pieces involving a variety of unusual props.

The performers "make a rhythm out of anything we can get our hands on that makes a sound," says Cresswell. "Synchronized stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra, eight Zippo lighters flip open and closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. "STOMP" uses everything but conventional percussion instruments-dustbins, tea chests, radiator hoses, boots, hub caps-to fill the stage with a compelling and unique act that is often imitated but never duplicated."

"STOMP" is sponsored by AlfrEd Matthews, Oak Valley Community Bank, and Sutter Health Central Valley Region.

To post a comment, you must register and login.