State Theatre Presents STOMP

(New Brunswick, NJ) -— State Theatre presents STOMP, the international percussion sensation on Friday, February 11, 2011 at 8pm and Saturday, February 12 at 3pm and 8pm. From its beginnings as a street performance in the UK, STOMP has grown into an international sensation over the past 13 years, having performed in over 350 cities in 36 countries worldwide. STOMP is part of the State Theatre's winter festival, Hub City Carnivale, three weeks of performances, activities, and attractions for all ages. Prior to each STOMP performance there will be a FREE chocolate tasting in the State Theatre lobbies, courtesy of Thomas Sweet in New Brunswick (with purchase of STOMP ticket). Tickets range from $32-67.

"We're making STOMP very affordable for all audiences this February. So share this exhilarating show with your whole family!" states Daniel Grossman, Vice President of Marketing at the State Theatre. "Just mention STOMP7 when you call for tickets and you'll save $7 per ticket. That means Broadway quality close to home for as little as $25 per ticket, or $60 for the best seat in the hall. What a deal!"

STOMP OUT HUNGER! State Theatre in partnership with Elijah's Promise will hold a food drive during the performances of STOMP to benefit the Elijah's Promise Food Pantry in New Brunswick. People can help by bringing in non-perishable food items such as: canned fruits and vegetables, tuna, pastas, rice, and beans when they come to see STOMP. Those who cannot make the show can still drop off food items at the Ticket Office from February 11-13 during office hours.

STOMP, an overwhelming success marked by rave reviews, numerous awards, and sell-out engagements, is the winner of an Olivier Award for Best Choreography (London's Tony Award), a New York Obie Award, a Drama Desk Award for Unique Theatre Experience, and a Special Citation from Best Plays. The young performers "make a rhythm out of anything we can get our hands on that makes a sound," says co-creator/director Luke Cresswell. Stiff-bristle brooms become a sweeping orchestra; Zippo lighters flip open and closed to create a fiery fugue; wooden poles thump and clack in a rhythmic explosion. STOMP uses everything but conventional percussion instruments—trashcans, tea chests, plastic bags, plungers, boots, and hubcaps – to fill the stage with compelling and infectious rhythms.

Critics and audiences have raved: "STOMP is as crisp and exuberant as if it had opened yesterday," says The New York Times. The San Francisco Chronicle declares "STOMP has a beat that just won't quit!" The Los Angeles Times exclaims: "Electrifying! Triumphs in the infinite variety of the human experience." "A phenomenal show! Bashing, crashing, smashing, swishing, banging and kicking—a joyous invention!" says the Chicago Tribune.

STOMP is directed and created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas.

For tickets or more information, call the State Theatre ticket office at 732-246-SHOW (7469), or visit us online at www.StateTheatreNJ.org. The State Theatre ticket office, located at 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick NJ, is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 10am to 6pm; Wednesday 11am to 7pm; Saturday 1pm to 5pm; and at least one hour prior to curtain on performance dates. For information on group outings and discounts, call 732-247-7200, ext. 517.