Simon Cabaret is a Patong institution and the show most visitors go to at least once. Its theatre on Sirirat Road, at the southern end of Patong, hosts a polished, Las Vegas-style revue performed by kathoey, Thailand’s transgender women and, in English, often called ladyboys. Over about ninety minutes the cast moves through a series of themed numbers, from Broadway and Hollywood to Korean pop, Chinese opera and Thai classical dance, each with its own set, lighting and wardrobe of sequins, feathers and towering headdresses. Between the big set pieces come comic sketches that play to the international audience. It is good-natured and family-friendly, and it gives a glimpse of a part of Thai popular culture that is celebrated on stage here. The Tiqets ticket includes admission and a choice of seating type, and the theatre is wheelchair accessible. After the show, performers usually gather outside in full costume for photos, and they expect a tip if you take one.
How it works: there are several performances each evening, so choose a time when you book. Arrive at least fifteen minutes before the start to exchange your smartphone ticket for a physical one at the box office. The ticket does not include transfers, food or drinks. It is nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled, so book once your plans are fixed.
What to expect: the theatre is large and air-conditioned, and the show runs without an interval. Photography rules are announced at the start, so follow the staff. The comedy is broad and light, and the performances are about spectacle and costume more than live singing. Children see it regularly, but the humour includes some innuendo.
Making the most of it: an early show leaves time for dinner afterwards on the Patong seafront, while a later one can roll into a walk along Bangla Road, Patong’s neon nightlife strip, which is only a few minutes away. If you want photos with the performers outside, have small notes ready for tips. If you stay in Kata, Karon or Kamala, allow time for evening traffic into Patong, or book a show with a transfer elsewhere.
What to expect
The experience
A ninety-minute costumed cabaret revue in a large Patong theatre, with themed dance numbers, lip-sync performances and comedy sketches.
Best time
An early evening show if you want dinner afterwards, or a later one before a walk down Bangla Road.
How long
About ninety minutes, plus fifteen minutes before to collect tickets and time afterwards for photos.
Tips
Book only once your dates are fixed, because the ticket is nonrefundable, and carry small notes for tips if you pose with performers.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A fun, glamorous night out that almost everyone enjoys, whatever their age.
- Families
- Suitable for most families, though some jokes carry light innuendo for teenagers and adults.
- Couples
- Pair the show with a sunset dinner and a stroll through Patong afterwards.
- Pair with
- Bangla Road after the show, or Carnival Magic on another evening.
- Time needed
- Two hours including arrival.
Good questions
Where is Simon Cabaret in Phuket?+
The theatre is on Sirirat Road at the southern end of Patong. It is a short walk or ride from most Patong hotels.
How long is the Simon Cabaret show?+
The show lasts about ninety minutes. Arrive at least fifteen minutes early to exchange your ticket.
Is Simon Cabaret suitable for children?+
Yes, many families attend, and the show is about costume and spectacle. Some comedy includes light innuendo.
Can I cancel my Simon Cabaret ticket?+
No, the Tiqets ticket is nonrefundable and cannot be rescheduled. Book once your evening is confirmed.
Do I have to tip the performers?+
Tipping is expected if you take photos with performers outside after the show. Watching the show itself requires no extra payment.
