The Ladyboys Of Bangkok: Fantasy & Feathers – Sabi Pavillion, Manchester

Reviewer: Matthew Nicholls

The Public Reviews Rating:

Now in its twelfth year, this global phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down or losing its appeal. It’s certainly an odd prospect to try to sell to a crowd of mates; do you want to come and see 16 ‘kathoeys’ (the Thai interpretation of the “third sex”) lip sync to a variety of pop songs in desperately camp and kitsch costumes? If you’re given the opportunity, then don’t turn it down, because the evening is a triumph.

I caught the show two years ago and was bowled over by its ingenuity, razzle-dazzle and sense of fun. This time round, it’s just as good…maybe even better. Paired with an audience who are having a whale of a time, this is infectious and slightly raunchy fun for the whole family. A lively (translation: drunk/very drunk/well on the way to drunk) Manchester crowd whoop, scream and holler, and demand nearly two hours of glitz, glamour and some risqué gags. They get it, and lots more.

The theme of the show is arbitrary, although for any pedants/Trade Descriptions officers out there, you needn’t worry – there are plenty of feathers. It’s a rollercoaster of dance-floor favourites, interspersed with comedy numbers, and they’re all here. Cher’s Strong Enough, a tribute to Cheryl Cole, a bizarre Britain’s Got Talent/X Factor mash-up, a genuinely superb Lady Gaga number, a Village People routine, and a storming and superbly choreographed tribute to the King Of Pop. If the show doesn’t merit its full fifth star, it’s because some of the miming is a little patchy in places, and not all of the choreography is exceptional.

That said, it’s a bit like picking holes in a bag of sweets. If you’re here for a good time, you’ll have a great time. The company are a mixture of funny, endearing sexy and good-natured. How they get through two shows a night with this level of energy is beyond me! Don’t sit too near the front if you’re averse to audience participation, and the possibility of getting a bit wet. The experience is also completed by excellent Thai food on offer, and lots of souvenirs.

Yes, it does the rounds every year, but this year’s show is a gem, and there’s a week left to catch it in Manchester. If you fancy a great night out, you can’t beat this show; it’s the perfect party entertainment.