AFTER last year’s successful Stomp run at Bournemouth Pavilion with more than 6,000 people attending the shows, this phenomenal production returns this week.

Created in the UK in 1991, Stomp is a unique combination of stunning percussion, precise choreography, and simple visual comedy.

The show has travelled all over the world, entertaining more than 15 million people in 53 countries, from America to the Far East, from Ireland to Australia, and around Europe.

One of the secrets of Stomp’s success is that it appeals to all ages and all cultures. There is no narrative in the show, apart from the universal language of compelling rhythms and slapstick comedy.

Eight energetic young performers use a wide mix of brooms, tractor tyres, basketballs, shopping trolleys, cigarette lighters, and – quite literally – the kitchen sink, to convey a huge range of percussive sound effects.

One of the highlights is the throbbing spectacle of the performers swinging high in harnesses, playing everything from thundering tom-toms to delicate pipes.

At one hour and forty minutes without an interval, this is a family show which kids seem to love. Lacking any musical melody and harmony, constant percussion inevitably can sound monotonous, tedious and boring. Stomp’s explosive dynamism, inventive creativity, and childlike humour drive the show.

Stomp runs until Saturday, and is also involved in workshops for local youngsters in Bournemouth Pavilion’s annual Summer Youth School. Contact the Pavilion for details on how to Stomp your stuff!

Brendan McCusker