Bangkok’s famous Calypso Cabaret has just passed its 25^th anniversary, and is now located at the Asiatique complex on the Chao Phraya river, having moved from its longtime theatre located in the Asia Hotel at BTS Ratchatewi. The new neighborhood is decidedly more commercial, as is the show, which is suited for all ages. There were many children in the audience at the show we attended, and sure enough, there were no risque jokes told, sexual innuendos made, nor breasts bared.  

What Calypso offers is a tightly paced and well-choreographed revue. The costume changes work like clockwork, and they’d better, as we counted fourteen vignettes in the 90 minute show. Our favorite piece was a slow Japanese ballad sung against a lovely but simple backdrop, and we swore the singer actually sang it, rather than lip-synching. Unfortunately, no one at the exit spoke English, so there was no confirmation or denial.

The show is ideally suited for those who’ve never seen a ladyboy performance. Bangkok’s ladyboys  are legendary in many ways, and those who have seen performers such as Boston’s Sylvia Sydney or San Francisco’s Charles Pierce will probably want something stronger in terms of humor that what they’ll get at Calypso.  Calypso is most decidedly a show, rather than a nightclub act. Several of its performance components are operatic in their conception and costume changes. This is an entertaining show that will appeal to just about everyone and will never get busted for nudism or lewd behavior , and it’s held at the benign Asiatique on the river. For those wanting a more personal ladyboy experience that gets away from showbiz, we recommend going to a ladyboy bar at Nana Plaza on Sukhumvit.  For fun, great choreography, and a touch of vaudeville, we recommend Calypso. After the show, the girls line up for pictures, and tips are appreciated. Book your Calypso Cabaret show seats here.