By Jess O’Bryan and Sarah Goff-Tunks
Cabaret performers at a northern Thailand theatre have praised the country’s commitment to trans rights at a time when there is an increasing backlash globally by conservative politicians.
In just his first two weeks of his second term in office, President Donald Trump has signed numerous executive orders that have sent shock waves through the LGBTQIA+ community.
Within hours of being sworn in he signed an executive order recognising only two sexes, in a move to defend “women from gender ideology extremism”.
And, just days ago he inked an additional order which aims to limit or prohibit gender transition procedures, barring individuals under 19 years of age from accessing what the executive order described as “destructive and life-altering procedures”.
While global shifts have increased anxieties within the transgender community, Kathoey (or ladyboy) cabarets across Thailand are continuing to grow, fostering representation and inclusivity for trans people.
For nearly a decade, Siam Dragon Cabaret Show, in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, has been captivating thousands of tourists each year — offering its audiences a night of fun, music, and culture.
But a glimpse at life behind the curtain reveals it’s much more for the performers who have come to call the cabaret home. From empowering ladyboys in their identities to helping alter audience perceptions about the LGBTQIA+ community, cabaret venues like Siam Dragon are a cornerstone of Thailand’s booming post-COVID tourism industry.
Translations and additional reporting by Pawika Dhammalongkrot.
Main image of cabaret performer Rod Benz. Photo by Sarah Goff-Tunks.
