Stompdown, a step group competition, will return the last weekend in March after a two-year absence from OU’s campus.

Hosted by the Black Student Association and National Pan-Hellenic Council, this year’s event will be themed after a Stompdown competition from 40 years ago.

A comedy show, history of step, cookouts and karaoke night will take place around campus during the week of March 22, ending with the competition March 27 in the McCasland Field House.

“We are going to host a show that the alumni expect,” said Lauren McMillan, BSA president and English writing senior.

Step groups from OU and universities from surrounding states will compete for a $2,500 cash prize. A representative from each National Pan-Hellenic organization will judge the event and determine the winner.

For Stompdown’s 27th year, NPHC and BSA titled it, “The Prestige,” based off of the blockbuster movie title.

“In the film, the magician makes something disappear and then reappear, similar to Stompdown returning this year,” said Latasha Mosely-Edwards, Stompdown chairwoman and chemistry senior.

Mosely-Edwards said committee members have been working on details for Stompdown since last March.

“Stompdown is more than a competition between the most skilled and intense steppers in the Southwest Region,” she said. “It is an event of promise to the BSA/NPHC charter members, as well as the masses.”

Catherine Fuller, professional writing sophomore, said she plans to attend Stompdown.

“I’ve only seen one step group and it really impressed me,” Fuller said. “I’m excited they brought it back so campus could enjoy the tradition again.”

Stompdown audiences have reached up to 1,500 people, and event organizers said they expect a large turnout.

“I’m really excited about the competition this year; it’s going to be a big one,” McMillan said. “It’s my senior year, and I want to go out with a bang.”

Tickets will be sold at ticketstorm.com for $7 to $15.