Review: Suki Waterhouse at PICA Theatre

Review by Jessica Flynn

On June 7, 2025, the Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA) was transformed into a shimmering haven for music lovers, as Suki Waterhouse graced the stage for her highly anticipated Australian debut. As part of the RISING Festival, this exclusive performance was a testament to Waterhouse's evolution from a model and actress to a formidable musical talent.

From the moment the lights dimmed, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Waterhouse, accompanied by her full band, opened with "Gateway Drug," setting the tone for a night that would seamlessly blend genres and emotions. Her voice, both ethereal and grounded, resonated through the venue, captivating the audience with its raw authenticity.

The setlist was a journey through Waterhouse's latest album, Memoirs of a Sparklemuffin, a collection that delves into themes of fame, identity, and introspection. Tracks like "OMG" and "Model, Actress, Whatever" showcased her ability to fuse 90s alt-rock with dream pop, creating a soundscape that was both nostalgic and contemporary. 

The visual elements of the performance were equally compelling. The stage reflected soft, ambient lighting, casting a dreamy glow over the audience. The red lights during her latest single “On This Love” were particularly mystical. Each song was accompanied by carefully curated visuals; either encouraging the crowd to singalong or sway in entrancement. Waterhouse's presence was magnetic. Her stage attire (a blend of bohemian chic and rockstar edge) complemented the ethereal nature of her music. She is the ultimate cool girl, clearly inspiring the mass of fur jackets and sparkles in the audience. 

The highlight of the evening was Suki’s debut of a new song “The Bellboy” from her upcoming deluxe album. It felt like a special treat just for Melbourne. She also cleverly renamed her hit “Melrose Meltdown” to “Melbourne Meltdown” which was a sweet nod to the audience. 

PICA theatre was the perfect setting for this performance with its converted warehouse vibe. There were food and bar trucks out front although they were sadly not selling spiked hot chocolate which would have been a delight given it was cold and rainy. I would love to see this venue in summer as it was a little chilly. 

Support act Swapmeet, hailing from Adelaide, set the stage with their dreamy indie-pop tunes, warming up the crowd and creating a seamless transition into Waterhouse's performance.

Reflecting on the night, it's clear that Suki Waterhouse's performance at PICA was more than just a concert; it was an experience. Her ability to blend vulnerability with strength, nostalgia with innovation, and intimacy with grandeur, makes her a standout artist in today's music landscape. For those fortunate enough to witness this magical evening, it was a reminder of the power of live music to connect, inspire, and transform.

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