Sonkkila’s winning performance is enhanced by multiple costume changes, each adding a layer of depth and helping bring her characters to life. These outfits aren’t elaborate or outlandish, but carefully chosen to leave a lasting impression. Her jellyfish costume is especially memorable, and there is a certain visual that will be impossible to shake whenever I next squeeze an orange.
In the stark black box of this fringe venue, Sonkkila makes excellent use of lighting and sound to create distinct environments, guiding the audience seamlessly through each scene. Musical choices are well selected and add to the texture of the show. Her finale is a wonderfully bold act involving orange juice and an inflatable pool, reminiscent of the well-known Moira Finucane milk routine, highlights the talent and promise Sonkkila possesses.
Her "apple noir" storytelling set is particularly sharp, with Sonkkila sporting a green coat and a red coat for very obvious reasons. The presence of her stage manager - appearing to assist with outfit swaps, spills, or props - offers a charming, playful dynamic, giving the impression that anything could happen in this show.
It feels almost criminal to write a review without throwing in a fruit pun, but Sonkkila seems to have slipped them all into her show - if a pun existed, she had it. Her confidence with the material and her delivery is impressive, especially when navigating unscripted chats and interactions with the audience.
This debut performance from Sonkkila shows clear signs of future brilliance. She has a warm personality, undeniable charisma, and a fierce enthusiasm for her subject. Fruition is clever, engaging, and a treat for anyone who enjoy a show that's as informative as it is funny and fruity.
Fruition was performed at Spielhaus between 6 - 12 October as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Image Credit: Madeline Jane Royce
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