Art-pop phenomenon Melanie Martinez took full advantage of a headline performance at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas last month with an extensive celebration of her creative vision. The ambitious spectacle was part concert and part performance art as the edge of the stage was covered in moss and the set constantly utilized different props, outfits, and background video to implement a fully immersive experience.

Martinez led fans through a multi-sensory journey as she performed for over 2 hours- making sure to fully showcase her journey chronologically from the whimsical 2015 breakthrough album Cry Baby to 2023’s rhythmic Portals.

Each album’s songs inhabited their own meticulously crafted little world. Her sweet, soft voice perfectly aligned with the sugary pastel theme. With dollhouse imagery on video screens behind her, Martinez started the night with her hit “Cry Baby” as she stood on a platform and dancers performed in front of her. Each album’s cycle transitioned like acts in a play, and no expense was spared.

The interludes between each album’s set of songs served as a production change, but was also beautifully and theatrically presented with dancers and unique instrumental touches such as an upright bass and theremin that provided a unique sonic experience.

Melanie Martinez dramatic “death” on stage after performing songs from K-12 created a passage to songs from Portals and her “rebirth” as an otherworldly creature that kept the audience intrigued. Wherever her musical journey takes her in the future, it will no doubt be an alluring experience for both the ears and the eyes.