Cabaret Show Fun Night Out

Barcode Siem Reap – Fun Night Out at the Cabaret

Barcode Siem Reap – Fun Night Out at the Cabaret

Words: Monica Tindall
Photos: Han Sen Hau

Staying at the Bensley Collection Private Pool Villas in Siem Reap comes with more benefits than a butler (stunning accommodation, breakfast delivery and gracious service …) alone – you also get the hottest tips personally from the general manager for the most memorable food, entertainment and experiences in the city. We’ve followed several suggestions, such as the Phare Circus and Sokkhak River Lounge, and he has not led us astray. So tonight, we’re taking yet another tip and visiting Barcode, which plays host to Siem Reap’s most fabulous cabaret show!

Barcode Siem Reap street entrance
Barcode Siem Reap

Pub Street After Dark: A Night of Sass and Sequins

Not far from the throngs of bustling Pub Street, in a dark side alley, there’s a laser projection on the pavement – Barcode. This is your sign to ditch your walking shoes for dancing heels and prepare for a night of dazzling entertainment. Renowned for its electrifying drag queen performances and infectious energy, Barcode delivers one of the most fun nights out in the city.

Barcode Siem Reap the stage
The Stage

Arriving just before the 9 pm showtime allows us to snag a seat on the coveted lounges facing the stage. The bar is a kaleidoscope of colours, with low booths and high stools lining the walls and a sleek bar to the left of the entrance. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm shimmer on the crowd, a mix of tourists and locals, all buzzing with anticipation.

We quickly have drinks in our hands, a reasonably priced rosé wine by the glass (USD 5.50). Payment is easy with cash or a portable credit card reader. Service is great—our glasses are never empty, and we also don’t feel pressured into purchasing more than we need. Given that the show is free, the performances are showstopping, and the costumes are strikingly fabulous, it’s worth showing your support through more drink orders or tipping the artists directly.

Barcode Siem Reap Drinks Menu & Prices Cocktails
Barcode Siem Reap – Example of Cocktail Menu Prices
Barcode Siem Reap Wine  Menu & Prices
Barcode Siem Reap Wine Menu & Prices

The show kicks off at 9 pm, beginning slowly and steadily increasing in energy until it’s in full swing at 10 pm, and the songs, costumes, and performers seem unstoppable. Every time I tell Han Sen, “I’m heading home at the end of this song,” another highly entertaining number commences.

Barcode Siem Reap cosy bar
Grab a Seat Before 9 pm, as by 10 pm, Barcode Siem Reap is Full

An incredibly talented troupe of queens, in costumes a riot of feathers, sequins, and rhinestones, with towering wigs and flawless makeup, put together a lip-syncing extravaganza. The performers sashay across the stage, their movements captivating and their voices perfectly in sync with each iconic diva portrayed.

Barcode Siem Reap cabaret performer
Live Cabaret Performance at Barcode Siem Reap

Every act brings a new costume reveal, an upbeat musical number, and a fresh dose of humour. There are hilarious skits poking fun at pop culture, sassy medleys of classic show tunes, and even a heart-wrenching ballad delivered with surprising emotional depth. They’re storytellers, comedians, dancers, and singers all rolled into one, their talent undeniable and their dedication to their craft evident in every performance.

Cabaret Show Fun Night Out - cabaret performer
A Fun Night Out Not Far From Pub Street

A testament to their artistic skill, the crowd roars with approval, whistles and cheers echoing through the bar. Each artist brings a unique flair to the performance, some with playful winks and interaction with the audience, others with fierce dance moves that command attention. The energy is electric.

Barcode Siem Reap Review

Barcode is a celebration of self-expression, creativity, and the power of performance. This vibrant bar rounds out exploring temples and ancient ruins with exciting nightlife, talented performers, and the chance to connect with people from all walks of life. If you’re looking for an unforgettable night in Siem Reap, look no further than Barcode. Be prepared to be dazzled by sass, sequins, and showmanship.

Reasons to visit Barcode Siem Reap: a fabulous night out in Siem Reap; a friendly audience of tourists and locals; professional performers; stunning costumes; friendly bar team; an all-around genuinely good time.

Barcode Siem Reap
Mondul 1 Village, New Street A
Krong Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia
+855 (0)11 596 480
[email protected]

Bar Code Siem Reap Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9 pm until Late
We recommend going around, or just before, 9 pm to grab a good seat. The show slowly warms up at 9 pm, and by 10 pm, it is in full swing. The performances were so good it was hard to leave. We’ve heard the show continues until 5 am!

Find more luxury gourmet travel recommendations for Cambodia here and stay updated on the latest gourmet and travel happenings via our social media here and here.

One Comment

  1. Geoff Harrison

    Completely agree with your review of Barcode and can attest that Sokkhak River Lounge is wonderful, excellent food, drinks and service. Popular with Khmer patrons as well as visitors. Also try Rendezvous near the Old Market, smaller and more intimate mainly gay clientele.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.