Written by Carrie Beth Wallace.
Images via RiverCenter. Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas. All images © Steve McNicholas.
The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts will serve as the host of yet another national tour launch this weekend when Columbus arts patrons will have the chance to be among the first audience members to see the latest production of STOMP before the cast and crew hit the road on the company's latest North American tour.
Performances will be in Bill Heard Theatre on Sunday, October 22 at 4PM and Monday, October 23 at 7:30PM, and will feature an impressive cast of internationally-acclaimed percussionists who have mastered the show's famous style. Expect to see a multitude of new fast-paced numbers rich with their famous complex musical choreography that has made the franchise popular since the 90s.
"STOMP is a non-stop, action-filled performance that started as an outgrowth of early days of breakdancing," said Norman Easterbrook, Executive Director of the RiverCenter. "The show has been a staple of the stage for years and is constantly updated and revised with choreography that has become more challenging from year to year. All of the rhythm for this fast-paced, often explosive choreography is created with sound objects – everything from match boxes, to brooms, to garbage cans! This is an all-ages show that always leaves audiences invigorated and thrilled by their experience in the theater."
Easterbrook explained that because this is a national tour launch, Columbus audiences will be the very first to see all new choreography with completely refreshed costuming, lighting, and sound. "This is the premier performance, just for Columbus audiences, before the show goes on to West Palm Beach for four days of performances," he said.
These national tours have become a hallmark of what makes RiverCenter for the Performing Arts unique. In addition to providing locals with the opportunity to be among the first audiences to see high-quality, big name productions close to home, each tour start-up brings in an average of $1.5 million in economic development for the city.
"The STOMP company has been in town this entire week," said Easterbrook. "They've been enjoying Columbus amenities, staying at Columbus hotels, purchasing materials and supplies for the tour launch, all the while allowing RiverCenter to keep stage and theatrical professionals working and to keep tickets affordable for audiences in the region."
In short, national tour startups like STOMP are a win-win for everyone involved and provide a unique set of positive outcomes for locals, visitors, and the city as a whole. Don't miss your chance to be a part of it all. ◾️
If You Go:
What: STOMP
Where: RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
When: Sunday, October 22 at 4PM and Monday, October 23 at 7:30PM
Tickets are $49-$69 and available through the RiverCenter's website or box office. To avoid falling victim to ticket scams, please always purchase your tickets directly through the venue's website and/or through their box office!