Bangkok Calypso Cabaret Ticket at Asiatique The Riverfront

If you’re looking for an entertaining evening in Bangkok that combines dazzling costumes, lively performances, and a taste of Thai culture, the Calypso Cabaret Show at Asiatique The Riverfront might just fit the bill. This well-known event showcases talented ladyboy performers in spectacular costumes, singing and dancing in English, Korean, and Thai, giving audiences a lively, colorful glimpse into Thailand’s famed cabaret scene. While reviews suggest it’s not perfect, it offers enough sparkle and fun to make it a memorable experience for many travelers.

What we really appreciate about this ticket is the variety of options—you can simply buy a seat for the show, or enhance your evening with dinner and even combine it with a sunset cruise for a full night of entertainment. The showtimes are flexible and the ticket price (around $28) makes it accessible, especially compared to similar experiences in entertainment-heavy cities. That said, a key consideration is that the reviews reveal a mixed experience—some found the show a tad short or less polished than expected. Still, for those craving a night of glitz in Bangkok, this event can hit the right notes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy vibrant performances, are curious to see Thailand’s unique ladyboy cabaret scene, and want a flexible evening activity. It may not be ideal if you’re seeking a highly refined production, but for those who enjoy a lively, colorful spectacle with good value for money, it can be a fun choice.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible tickets with options to include dinner or a cruise
• Colorful performers singing in multiple languages, showcasing diversity
• Short but lively show that entertains with costumes and dance routines
• Mixed reviews highlight some inconsistency in performance quality
• Convenient location at Asiatique, accessible via river shuttle or BTS Skytrain
• Good value for money relative to Bangkok’s entertainment scene

An In-Depth Look at the Calypso Cabaret Experience

What the Tour Includes

At its core, the Calypso Cabaret ticket grants access to Thailand’s original transvestite cabaret at Asiatique The Riverfront. You can choose from two set showtimes, giving you some flexibility to fit the event into your evening plans. The ticket covers admission only, so if you want a more elaborate night out, you might consider booking the dinner option at the Calypso restaurant or even combining the show with a sunset dinner cruise.

The show lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, which is relatively short but packed with performances that range from glamorous drag acts to traditional Thai dance numbers. Reviewers note that the spectacle is both colorful and vibrant, with costumes that shine and choreographed routines that are lively enough to keep your attention.

The Venue and Accessibility

The Calypso Cabaret is nestled within the bustling Asiatique complex, situated along the riverfront. Getting there is straightforward: you can take the Asiatique Shuttle River Boat from Saphan Thaksin station, which adds a scenic element and avoids Bangkok’s notorious traffic. The location is near public transportation options, making it easy to reach for most travelers.

The venue itself is described as well-maintained, with a seating area that offers a good view of the stage. However, some reviews mention that sightlines can be affected if you’re seated behind someone tall or if the venue gets crowded with people taking photos during the performance.

What to Expect During the Show

The highlight of the evening is the performance of talented ladyboy performers who light up the stage with costumes inspired by Las Vegas, Korea, and Thailand. Expect musical numbers in multiple languages—English, Korean, and Thai—demonstrating the performers’ versatility and appeal to an international crowd.

Along With the main show, you might find the dinner option particularly worthwhile. Guests who have pre-booked the dinner note that the Thai meal is delicious, and the traditional Khon dance performed before the cabaret adds an authentic cultural touch. However, some reviewers found the dinner and show experience confusing, with one stating, “I was under the impression of booking the Calypso Cabaret show but was told we only booked the dinner part,” which resulted in additional charges.

Quality and Performance Level

Reviews depict a mixed bag when it comes to the performance quality. Some visitors praise the spectacular costumes and lively dance routines, noting that the show is colorful and entertaining. Others find the lip-syncing to be lackluster, with some performers appearing less trained or professional. One reviewer described the show as “not very professional,” citing tired song choices and rigid choreography.

A common critique is the short duration of the show—some found it rushed or not as “cabaret-like” as they expected. One user shared that the lighting and production values felt somewhat amateurish compared to high-end international productions. Still, the performers’ enthusiasm and costumes generally shine through, creating a fun, if imperfect, spectacle.

Audience Experience and Atmosphere

The reception from viewers varies. Some loved the diversity of acts, mentioning the fun and lively atmosphere. One reviewer called it “a very entertaining and funny show,” especially when combined with dinner. Conversely, others felt some of the songs and choreography were tired, and the rigid staging detracted from the overall experience.

A notable point is the crowd’s behavior—with constant phone use, some found it difficult to appreciate the performance fully. Seating can sometimes be less than ideal, and if you’re expecting a highly polished, Vegas-style production, you might be a tad disappointed.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $28 per person, the ticket offers good value for a night of entertainment in Bangkok. If you opt for the dinner package, the experience becomes more immersive, but even as a standalone show, it provides colorful performances and a memorable night out. Some reviews mention additional charges if you didn’t initially book the dinner, so clarify your booking details beforehand.

Who Should Book This?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers seeking lively, vibrant performances. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Thailand’s famous ladyboy cabaret scene or want an inexpensive yet entertaining night. Those expecting a polished, high-budget production may find it falls short, but if you enjoy colorful costumes, enthusiastic performers, and authentic local entertainment, this will deliver.

Final Thoughts

The Calypso Cabaret Show at Asiatique offers a fun, if imperfect, look into Bangkok’s cabaret scene. For around $28, you get a lively spectacle with talented performers, bright costumes, and a colorful atmosphere that encapsulates some of the city’s lively nightlife. If you’re flexible with your expectations and open to a show that’s more about fun and authentic charm than perfection, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

However, keep in mind that the performance quality varies, and the short duration might leave some feeling they’d like more. The dinner and cruise add-ons enhance the overall experience but may involve additional costs and some confusion during booking.

All in all, this is a great choice for those wanting an affordable, lively night out that captures the spirit of Bangkok’s renowned entertainment scene. It suits travelers who enjoy colorful performances, cultural shows, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere—just don’t expect a perfectly polished production.

FAQ

Is the ticket for the show or does it include dinner?
The standard ticket is just for admission to the show. If you want dinner, you need to reserve a dinner and show package at the Calypso restaurant.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the performance?
It’s recommended to book at least 13 days in advance, as this experience is popular and tickets can sell out, especially for preferred showtimes.

How do I get to Asiatique the Riverfront?
You can reach Asiatique via the river shuttle boat from Saphan Thaksin station, which offers a scenic route along the river. It’s also near public transportation, making it fairly easy to access.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 11 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult, making it suitable for family outings as well.

How long does the show last?
The performance typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours, perfect for an evening activity without taking up your entire night.

Is this experience worth the price?
At around $28, it offers a fun, colorful experience and good entertainment value. However, if you’re expecting a highly polished production, be prepared for some imperfections.

To sum it up, the Calypso Cabaret at Asiatique is a lively, budget-friendly option for travelers eager to experience Bangkok’s famed cabaret scene without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those craving vibrant costumes and a taste of local entertainment, as long as they’re okay with the possibility of uneven performances. Whether you choose just the show or combine it with dinner or a cruise, it’s a night that’s likely to leave you smiling and talking about Bangkok’s colorful nightlife long after the curtains close.