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Stomp is marking its 30th anniversary with a high-energy tour that turns brooms, buckets, sinks and trash cans into musical instruments. The production arrives at the National Theatre for four performances Jan. 16–18, with shows at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For performer Andrew Patrick, the show’s influence began long before he joined its cast. A drummer, dancer and performer, Patrick discovered Stomp as a teenager and immediately connected with its explosive combination of rhythm and movement.

At 21, he attended an open audition in New York. That opportunity led to more than two decades of touring internationally with the company.

The 105-minute production features roughly two dozen routines built around ordinary objects, including shopping carts, brooms and garbage cans. There is no dialogue, singing or prerecorded music. Instead, the performers tell the story through live percussion, physical movement and interactions with one another and the audience.

That absence of spoken language has helped Stomp connect with audiences around the world. Patrick said he has performed for crowds spanning virtually every age group, from infants to people as old as 100. Some respond to the rhythm, while others connect with the comedy and distinct personalities onstage.

Among Patrick’s favorite segments is the “hands routine,” created entirely with clapping and body percussion. He also enjoys the signature brooms sequence, one of the show’s most recognizable numbers.

The anniversary production still holds surprises for returning fans. Its creative team revises the show periodically, and the current tour includes adjustments to established material. A traveling company of 12 performers rotates through the eight roles presented each night, giving every performance its own character.

That variation is also driven by the cast members themselves. Although each role has an established foundation, performers are encouraged to bring their individual styles to the routines.

Behind the show’s playful appearance is exacting preparation. Patrick said sequences that can look spontaneous are carefully rehearsed down to the smallest beats. With every movement tied to the ensemble’s rhythm, even a momentary lapse in timing can affect the entire routine.

Comedy adds another dimension. Much of it grows from the performers’ wordless rivalries and interactions as their characters compete, irritate one another and fool around between beats. Patrick said audiences often arrive expecting percussion but are surprised by how much they laugh.

The show has also encouraged young audience members to explore music. Patrick said children frequently approach the cast afterward and say the performance inspired them to begin drumming.

Touring requires the company to set up, perform and pack again as it moves between cities every few days. Patrick said the demanding schedule also keeps the production fresh and builds camaraderie among the performers and crew.

Created by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas, Stomp has endured by finding unexpected possibilities in familiar objects. Its performers aim to ensure audiences leave imagining new rhythms in the household items they encounter every day.