K Mak at the Planetarium is an hour of music by K Mak on the keyboards with a beautifully understated drummer, previously recorded extras, and arrangements for live violin and cello. K Mak sings through voice distorted mics which is probably most akin to electropop. With the four musicians set up down the front of the vertically tiered seating, the star of the show has to be the planetarium’s 360º dome screening visuals synchronised for each musical piece.

The prepared visuals range from abstract bubbles, 3D diagrams of an eye, rocketships, jellyfish, flower petals opening, and tons of colour and form careening slowing around the domed screen in a mesmerising mix of music and imagery. Most of the audience was sitting with their head back gazing upward for the entire session, and it’s this mix of planetarium and music that distinguishes this FRINGE WORLD show.

Near the end of the show, K Mak started engaging with the audience with a free giveaway (a recycled plastic frisbee with a QR code to download their album) and mentioned the other planetariums around the country they had performed the show (and which ones allowed her to throw the frisbee to a punter). It’s certainly a great idea mixing music with this kind of venue, and I imagine it touches memories for many who have grown up going to Scitech or taking kids there.

It would have been good to hear from her earlier in the show, especially as the advertising suggests that K Mak as a cellist would feature. Her accompanying musicians were excellent and made for an unexpectedly ambient planetary experience. Don’t expect coherence or narrative; it’s much more formless and flowy. And for those with sensitive ears, concert earplugs will be useful.