STOMP takes the meaning of recycling to a whole new world of music and artistry. You will never look at your humble broom again in the same way. You will want to tap out beats while taking the rubbish bin out. You will want to make paper planes with the newspaper and amuse the kids. You will want to dig through the garbage and find something to make noise with. Umm.. maybe scratch that last one out. A day old garbage is not something that you want to hold .. or smell.
The toe tapping rhythm that the STOMP artists find carries through the crowds and in no time everyone is clapping and trying to keep up. There is a large level of audience participation. There is also a fairly clever gag running through the show that makes the whole show not only musical wizardry, but provides comic relief as well.
Some of the instruments used to create beautiful music defy logic. Whatever you do, don’t miss the trick with the lighters or the newspaper. Kids will love it (if they can keep quiet).
Speaking of kids, if you are going with little ones (less than 2 years old) make sure that you get aisle seats in case you need to make a quick exit if they start playing up. However, in a tribute to the show’s ability to keep kids amused, entertained and sitting still for around an hour, our 1.6 years old sat and watched the whole show in amazement. Occassinaly you could hear him say “man” loudly enough for everyone to hear during the quiet times of the show, but those quiet times were few and far between. Our 3 year old was thoroughly enthralled. We forgot she was there. Both kids want to see it again!
One sour note: When asked for some tap water from the bar staff at Jupiters Casino inside the theatre, I was refused. This is illegal in Queensland with fines ranging up to $4000. Bars must provide free tap water: http://www.olgr.qld.gov.au/stories/alcoholrelatedviolence2.shtml#7. You may want to take your own drinks to keep the kids hydrated.
What? STOMP at the Jupiter Casino, Gold Coast.
When? On now.
Tickets: At the Jupiters Box Office. From $59. You are better off combining a dinner and show package, which start at $69.
