STOMP Producers Respond to Mackintosh News; May Search for New Theatre

The producers of West End's STOMP, Luke Cresswell, Glynis Hall, Loretta Sacco, and Steve McNicholas, have released a statement following the news that he would acquire the Victoria Palace Theatre, and STOMP's home, the Ambassadors.

"STOMP applauds Sir Cameron Mackintosh's vision of a non-proscenium, studio style transfer theatre in the heard of the West End. Stomp is itself a show that transferred from the fringe and it subsidises and supports The Old Market theatre, a non-proscenium venue in Brighton. The Ambassadors has been a wonderful space for us, and our West End business is at an all time high. Obviously we were disappointed yesterday to discover we may have to look for a new home for Stomp in London in the near future. Since being at the Ambassadors, sales have grown year on year without exception and after our appearance at the Olympics closing ceremony Stomp has had its best ever years in London.

"Even as the news was about to be released we were enjoying a sold-out Thursday matinee at a time of the year that is traditionally tough for West End shows. We are still enjoying record levels of demand, with some of the highest occupancy rates in the West End.

"STOMP successfully transferred from the Vaudeville to the Ambassadors in 2007, and became an even bigger hit in the process. We are committed to our run at the Ambassadors, to our audiences, and to the schools that have made us such a popular choice for theatre trips and workshops. With that in mind, we will be looking at options for a new home in London to further our phenomenally successful 12-year run and wish the new owners of the Ambassadors the best of luck in their new venture.

"STOMP will shortly be extending its booking period at the Ambassadors through to December 2015."

Since its premiere at the Edinburgh Festival in 1991, Stomp has become a global phenomenon, showcasing a universal language of rhythm, theatre, comedy and dance that has resonated with audiences throughout the world. Eight performers use everything from Zippo lighters and plastic bags to bin lids and even the kitchen sink to hammer out an explosively feel-good rhythm.

STOMP has toured the globe almost continuously for over 20 years, setting feet stamping, fingers drumming and adrenalin rushing for over 15 million people in 53 countries across 5 continents. It is currently playing in the UK, US, throughout Europe and South America.

From a single drum hanging around Luke Cresswell's neck back in 1991, STOMP has taken on a life of its own. Creators and co-directors Cresswell and Steve McNicholas developed a pulsating, witty, utterly irresistible theatrical event that has become a worldwide phenomenon.