BWW Reviews: STOMP at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center - Truly Unique

STOMP is now at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center's Belk Theater.  It's a unique show that uses everything,… and I mean everything to bring rhythm and percussion to the stage including match boxes, sticks, inner tubes, folding chairs, sinks and straws. 

The show's inner city entertainers with their silent comic style reminded me of classic mimes and old vaudevillian performers.  Simple things made great with their incredible talent. There was tapping, juggling, combat and drumming; urban street theater brought to stage. I remember seeing snippets of this style in the subways of NYC and in the French Quarter of New Orleans back in the '80s. It was delightful to see the audience not dulled by the simpleness of its theme. Perhaps introducing some Beatboxing and Parkour would make the show more current.

STOMP was interactive and it appeals everyone including families with young children. The  performers encouraged the audience to clap and "stomp" along during the show. At times the show was comic and at times it was clever. The performers were cohesive and all of them were very strong. They kept moving, creating and they were enjoying themselves.

There was a point when they were hanging from tethers drumming and all I could think was, 'Wow, I'd like to be doing that, what fun.' There were visuals including a butane lighter routine in the dark. At times the show was subtle and at times it was loud.

The kids in the audience saw that rhythm of music can be made with anything. Our need for rhythm is universal. I am sure there will be pot and pan "stomping" at home after the show.

STOMP, a Broadway Extra at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, Belk Theater, until Sunday, April 8, 2012. Tickets are available at the Blumenthal Box Office: (704) 372-1000.

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