INTERVIEW: From Bangkok to Brighton, The Ladyboys are back!
The world‑famous cabaret spectacular has touched down at Preston Park for a strictly limited season inside the Sabai Pavilion
The unstoppable icons of Brighton Fringe, The Ladyboys of Bangkok make their triumphant return with a gorgeous brand new, Full Moon show. A show so spectacular it practically crackles with electricity. From the moment the curtain rises, you’re swept into a world where sequins reign supreme, choreography defies gravity and every beat pulses with theatrical fire.
Expect an avalanche of chart topping hits, riotous comedy and the unmistakable glamour of Thailand’s most radiant performers. Whether you’re a devoted follower or a wide eyed newcomer, prepare to be consumed by a whirlwind of joy, sparkle and show stopping brilliance. Over the years the show has welcomed celebrity visitors including Rylan Clark, Russell Tovey and Katie Price. The Pricey loves it actually, she mentions it on her podcast every now and then! Oh and I managed to snag an exclusive yap with the show’s manager, Sandra Jolly so let’s dive in....head first!
DALEYPOP: Hey Sandra! For our readers who are intrigued about getting or have tickets already for The Ladyboys of Bangkok for the first time ever, how would you describe what this show really is beyond the costumes and glamour?
SANDRA JOLLY: At the end of the day, it’s a fantastic night out. Yes, there’s glamour, amazing costumes and plenty of sparkle but what really makes the show special is the atmosphere. It’s fun, funny, high energy and welcoming. People come expecting spectacle, but what they often leave talking about is how much they laughed, sang along and just genuinely enjoyed themselves.
DALEYPOP: Correct me if I'm wrong but I assume the new Full Moon show was inspired by Thailand’s famous Full Moon Party...? (an all-night beach party that originated in Haad Rin on the island of Ko Pha-ngan in 1985).
SANDRA JOLLY: Yes, absolutely.
The Full Moon Party in Thailand is all about music, celebration and people coming together to have an unforgettable time, and that really inspired this production.
We wanted to bring that same party spirit to the stage. The colour, the energy, the sense that anything can happen, and turn it into a Ladyboys of Bangkok night out.
DALEYPOP: What would you say makes the new Full Moon production the ultimate Ladyboys of Bangkok night out?
SANDRA JOLLY: This show really feels like a party from start to finish. It’s bigger, bolder and packed with energy. You’ve got incredible performances, huge costume changes, comedy, great music and loads of audience interaction.
It’s the kind of night where people can switch off from everyday life and just have fun.
DALEYPOP: I just want to know how you continue to keep on topping award winning Fringe seasons and still surprise people?!
SANDRA JOLLY: We never assume we can stand still. Audiences come back because they know they’ll have a great time, but they also want something fresh. So every year we look at how we can raise the bar. New ideas, new music, new production elements, while keeping the core of what people love.
DALEYPOP: The show has a lot of audience interaction, do no two performances ever feel the same?
SANDRA JOLLY: Not at all, and that’s one of the best parts. Every audience is different, every city is different and that changes the energy every night. Some crowds are wild from the first number, others build as the night goes on. That keeps it exciting for everyone, including us.
DALEYPOP: Every performer really does bring their own personality to the stage. How do you encourage individuality while keeping such a polished ensemble feel?
SANDRA JOLLY: That’s one of the show’s strengths. We absolutely want each performer’s personality to shine, because that’s what gives the show heart, but it all sits within a very professional production. Everyone works incredibly hard, so you get both individuality and a really slick overall experience.
DALEYPOP: The Ladyboys of Bangkok has been touring and evolving for many years, right?!
SANDRA JOLLY: Yes, since 1998, which is amazing really. Over the years the production has become bigger and more ambitious, but what’s never changed is the reason people come: to have a brilliant time.
DALEYPOP: Audiences often talk about how joyful and welcoming the atmosphere feels. Is that something you consciously build into the show?
SANDRA JOLLY: Definitely. We want everyone, whether it’s their first visit or their tenth, to feel included! It’s about creating a space where people can relax, laugh and enjoy themselves.
DALEYPOP: Can you share a moment where you felt particularly proud of what this show represents?
SANDRA JOLLY: Honestly, it’s seeing such a wide mix of people all having a great time together. Friends, couples, birthday groups, hen nights. Everyone just joins in. That shared enjoyment is something really special.
DALEYPOP: Are you up for teaching our readers a few Thai words that capture the spirit of Full Moon?
SANDRA JOLLY: Sanuk is a great one, it basically means fun and that’s exactly what this show is about. And sabai sabai which is more like relax, enjoy yourself, don’t overthink it.
DALEYPOP: Comedy is such a big part of the experience. How do you make sure humour lands across different cultures, ages and cities?
SANDRA JOLLY: A lot of it comes down to timing and knowing your audience.
Good humour is about connection, and because the show doesn’t take itself too seriously, people really respond to that.
DALEYPOP: How do Thai attitudes to beauty and self expression shape the experience?
SANDRA JOLLY: There’s a huge celebration of presentation, performance and self expression in Thai entertainment, and that absolutely comes through in the show.
DALEYPOP: How excited are you to bring the party energy of Full Moon to Brighton?
SANDRA JOLLY: Very! Brighton already has such an amazing energy. It’s a vibrant and open minded city and loves a good night out, so it feels like a perfect fit.
DALEYPOP: For those who want the ultimate Full Moon experience (meeeeee), what makes the Champagne Trio tables the place everyone wants to be?
SANDRA JOLLY: You’re right in the middle of it all. Best views, great atmosphere, a bit of luxury and a real sense that you’re part of the action.
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