Show manager Sandra Jolly lets us into the world of The Lady Boys of Bangkok, currently touring with their show Full Moon, which stops off at Shepherd’s Bush Green between 27 Jun to 12 Jul.
Details and tickets: https://www.ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk/tour-dates/
You’re currently part-way through a tour of your latest show Full Moon. How has it all been going, and what can you tell us about the show?
It’s been fantastic so far. Audiences have really embraced Full Moon because it feels fresh whilst still having everything people love about The Lady Boys of Bangkok.
It’s glamorous, funny, full of energy and packed with incredible costumes and music, but this year we’ve also introduced a playful story running through the show.
What starts as the ultimate Full Moon beach party soon descends into chaos after a magic trick goes spectacularly wrong, so there’s plenty of comedy, surprises and unexpected twists along the way. It really is a wonderful escape from reality for a couple of hours.
The Lady Boys of Bangkok have been performing for over 25 years. How did it all start and how has the production evolved over the years?
The show first came to the UK in 1998 and has been touring ever since. At the beginning, many people had never seen anything like it before.
Over the years, we’ve evolved with the times, introducing new themes, contemporary music and bigger production values, whilst keeping the warmth, humour and connection with audiences that have always been at the heart of what we do.
We now have generations of people coming back – mums who first came with friends are now bringing their daughters, which is lovely to see.
What can you tell us about the performers involved in the show this year?
They’re an extraordinary group of people. Every one of them brings something different to the stage, whether it’s incredible dance ability, comic timing, glamour or a huge personality.
Some have been with us for several years, whilst others are newer to the production, so there’s a lovely mix of experience and fresh energy.
What audiences often don’t realise is how hard they work – there are hundreds of costume changes, quick changes happening in seconds and a huge amount of rehearsal behind the scenes.
They’re true professionals and they genuinely love entertaining people.
Do you have a highlight so far from the tour?
It’s always the audience reaction for me. I love that moment when you look around the room and see people completely forgetting about whatever else is going on in their lives and just having fun.
We’ve had audiences up dancing, people returning with friends because they enjoyed it so much the first time and so many lovely comments afterwards.
Brighton has been particularly special this year, but every city brings its own energy and surprises.
It sounds very much like party-time at the Full Moon. How would you sell the show and experience to a new audience?
I’d say if you’ve never been before, leave any expectations at the door. Yes, it’s glamorous. Yes, it’s funny. Yes, you’ll hear some brilliant music and see fabulous costumes.
But it’s also a proper theatrical experience with characters, comedy and a story unfolding throughout the night.
It’s joyful, uplifting and just a little bit bonkers in all the right ways.
Whether you’re coming with friends, your partner, work colleagues or celebrating a special occasion, you’ll leave with a smile on your face and probably wanting to come back again.