Concert Review: Ashnikko’s Smoochies Tour Brings Playful Chaos to the Palace Theatre

Ashnikko brought her Smoochies Tour to the Palace Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota, transforming the historic venue into a vibrant, candy-colored world built on confidence, charisma, and community. With opening support from Princess Nokia, the night was full of bold outfits, charisma, and playful chaotic energy.

Princess Nokia opened the evening with a set that leaned heavily on energy and crowd connection. While I was not deeply familiar with her music beyond her feature with Ashnikko, she immediately took control of the stage with so much confidence. Her stage presence and constant engagement with the audience made her set enjoyable to watch. Knowing that she would later reappear alongside Ashnikko added an extra layer of anticipation early in the night.

When Ashnikko took the stage, the atmosphere shifted into full celebration of the “Smoochies” era. I have been a fan of Ashnikko for a while, and it was such an exciting experience being able to photograph this show, and experience this not just as a fan, but from the photographer’s perspective as well. Ashnikko’s chemistry with her dancers was one of the strongest elements of the performance, bringing a sense of cohesion and personality to every song. The choreography, paired with cute and colorful set pieces and props, helped bring her distinct aesthetic to life. Ashnikko’s charisma carried the entire set, keeping the crowd engaged from start to finish with a performance that was as fun as it was confident. The night came full circle when Princess Nokia returned to the stage to perform her feature on “Slumber Party,” a moment that earned one of the loudest reactions of the evening. 

Overall, Ashnikko’s Smoochies Tour stop at the Palace Theatre delivered a colorful, fun, and memorable performance.