Whether you’re a seasoned toy enthusiast or a newbie in the collectors’ arena, here’s something to pump you up! Pop Mart, the international brand that sells toys designed by world-class artists, is opening its first store in Thailand.
The launch was announced by Justin Moon, Pop Mart’s president, in a LinkedIn post. According to him, the new outlet will be unveiled in September this year and will “elevate Thailand's art toy culture to new heights.”
Moon likewise mentioned that the launch is in partnership with multinational lifestyle company Minor International to achieve its goal of expanding to the Thai market.
The announcement also follows the company’s recent store opening at the Pavillion Mall in Malaysia last May.
While no specific location has been unveiled yet, Thai toy collectors can look forward to a wide array of pop culture-inspired merchandise from Skullpanda, Pucky, Harry Potter, Disney, and many more.
More details are expected to be revealed soon. To stay updated on developments for the new store, you can follow Pop Mart’s Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram pages.
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The Beat Asia's Up-and-Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from the region, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and to promote the music they (and us too!) would love the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at editorial@thebeat.asia or slide through our DMs on FacebookorInstagram!
While the entertainment industry can be hypercritical most of the time, a plethora of artists refuse to back down and choose to stay true to themselves even under the scrutinizing eyes of the public. Thai-Italian singer, songwriter, actor, and content creator SILVY, born Pavida Moriggi, is one such artist.
SILVY is the kind of singer one couldn’t describe with just a single adjective. As her song “We Are Beautiful” suggests, she is “beautiful,” “unstoppable,” and “powerful” all at the same time. Fans have come to know SILVY as an honest advocate for self-love and body positivity — and her debut single “XL” (from her 2022 self-titled album) couldn’t have introduced her any better.
As with many fierce personalities we know today, SILVY’s origin story was anything but easy; she is also more than just her strong, empowered stage persona. Behind the spotlight, SILVY is a woman still navigating life, dreams, and personal growth like anyone else.
Courtesy of SILVY
The songstress, born to a Thai mother and Italian father, always knew she wanted to be a musician and a performer. And so, she made it happen, first dipping her toes into the industry by joining Thai reality competition show “The Star” at the age of 15. She immediately scored a record deal with a major label after that stint, which was everything an aspiring musician could have asked for. However, it didn’t come without challenges. She found herself in a disheartening situation where she was asked to be more feminine, lose weight, and dress in a "gender-appropriate" way. Basically, to strip her of the very things that make her who she is.
Thankfully, despite such negative comments, SILVY stood her ground and found comfort in the way she approaches her craft. Now an independent artist, SILVY has more autonomy over the route she wants to take with her music. And one thing is certain: her story is far from over.
In this Up-And-Coming exclusive, The Beat Asia caught up with SILVY as she peels back a few more layers of herself, discussing the song she feels most connected to, what her stage persona truly means to her, her queer identity, and her next chapter as an artist. A GL (Girls’ Love) series is also on the way, so fans may want to watch out!
Hi, SILVY! We've been looking forward to chatting with you. To start this off, can you briefly introduce yourself and your artistic journey to us?
Courtesy of SILVY
So my name is Silvy; I'm half Thai, half Italian. Originally, I was born in Phuket; I'm an island girl. Then, when I was 15, I moved to Bangkok to pursue an artist career. Back then, it was in a singing competition called “The Star” from Thailand. I was one of the final eight! So that's the first time I got known for being Silvy the star in Thailand.
It's a popular-vote kind of TV show. I was ranked number six, eight, then seven, and then six, and then I got out *laughs.* It was fun, but it broke me a little. I just love singing, you know. And I've always loved singing. I wanted to be an artist. I just knew back then that I wanted to pursue this dream. So, I kept on going and [stayed] in Bangkok.
Who is SILVY beyond music and performing? Is there something your fans might not know about you yet?
I think if they follow me [on social media], they would know everything because I'm quite an open book. I show a lot of sides of myself — I don't have filters. But for outsiders, if they're not a fan and they view me just from social media or through my music, I think they would think that I'm like the bold bitch, you know, the very powerful, strong woman.
I think a lot of people assume that I'm always like that, but I'm actually an introvert, and I just love staying at home. Sometimes I love spending time alone, and I do boring stuff. I'm not “the queen” all the time. Sometimes I'm a hero, and sometimes I'm just normal.
I noticed your music is also rooted in female empowerment. Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
Courtesy of SILVY
I started off singing with Whitney Houston because of my mom. She loves Whitney Houston! When I was learning to sing, [I thought that if you can] sing her songs, you're great at singing. So I started with that. I like a diva kind of vibe. I loved that type of music — R&B, soul, and that grew on me. But when I was a teenager, and I started to grow up, I think the [artist] I wanted to be like was Lady Gaga. She's very talented. She sings, she dances, and she performs very well. She's very talented, and also she acts! It’s like she can do anything.
Which one of your songs feels the most personal to you, and why?
I think it's my debut single. It's called “XL.” I joined my first competition (“The Star”) when I was 15. And now I'm 30!
It's been up and down in the industry for 15 years already. I was struggling to put out my own music. Before, I used to do covers on YouTube. “XL” was one of the first songs that I wrote with my co-writers. It was when I was telling myself that I'm ready to love myself for who I am, even if I don't belong to the standards and stuff. Along my journey, the entertainment business in Asia kind of taught me that there are beauty standards.
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You have to act some type of way to fit in, especially in Thailand. It's not just the look, but how you represent yourself. You can't be too masculine. You need to be very proper, like a female artist. I kind of changed myself, and I felt like I wasn't enough. And then along the way, I got myself back, and then I told myself, “Okay, fuck it, I'm going to love myself.” That's when I wrote "XL," just to celebrate, you know, the stuff I got bullied for online. People were always saying, “Oh, you're talented, you're beautiful, but you need to lose some weight.”
“XL” was very personal to me because that's the first song. I gained much more confidence by releasing it and also by people reaching out to me and saying that they also suffer from this type of struggle. That was a very meaningful time for me.
Thank you for sharing that with us. And “XL” is a great song, by the way! Do you usually gather inspiration from your own experiences?
Yeah, most of my songs — I think all of them actually. Some are 100% from my own story, and some are maybe 5%, but I've never written a song that I don't feel like “the song.”
Onto your next song, can you tell us more about your latest collaboration with Valentina Ploy for “Bestie Baby”?
“Bestie Baby” is a very fun song and it's actually just a celebration for my bestie, Valentina Ploy. So we're both Thai-Italian. We met on “The Voice Thailand” and we were on the same team — in Team Joey Boy. We became friends because she found out that my tattoo is in Italian [which reads “I’m still learning” in English]. She was like, “That's Italian. You're Italian?” And I'm like, “Yeah!”
Photo from Instagram/ SILVY
And it's been eight years already. Valentina Ploy was actually one of the writers of “XL.” She got me into meeting with the producer as well, so I owe her a lot *laughs* And she was one of the writers of my first album. But we've never had a song together, so it's time that we have a song together. So “Bestie Baby” is a collaboration just to celebrate our friendship.
You've always been very outspoken about your confidence and self-acceptance. Can you share more about your experiences with the industry and what do you do to stay true to yourself?
I started really young, not knowing what I wanted to be, but then the industry kind of put something into my brain to tell me that, “Okay, I have to be this; I have to dress like this.” But that's what a label does to you, right?
Also, when you're young, you don't know what to do. So, you kind of go in that line. I tried being something that I'm not really. But then I started to love myself, and then I gained confidence. And [I felt like the] queen of the world! Back then, I felt like I got it all. I'm very confident. I know what I'm doing. That was during my “XL” and first album era.
I felt all the confidence, and I look like I'm ready to, you know, fight with everyone *laughs.* Looking back, I felt that really needed to happen because I'm at the point where I go into the industry, I lose myself. So, I gained myself back and then all of the confidence came. I don't know if it's called toxic positivity or not, but it made me feel like I can handle things. Like, I don't care what they say — I don't care what anybody says.
Courtesy of SILVYCourtesy of SILVY
Even if I still have negative feelings about some comments, I'm just like, “I don't care!” But then, deeply, I know that I still care.
So right now, I feel like I started to not be “the queen” because of all of the pressure; people look up to me, especially in Thailand, there aren't many strong characters. So, I'm one of the strong characters, and people look up to me as the confident queen.
I think I got pressured by being the hero all the time and I forced myself to try to think positive. I can't break down. I can't have a break. I need to be strong all the time. And I just recently learned that I am actually The Silvy, the Queen, which I somehow created, and I feel like that's my positive energy. I still like her, but that's also one of my alter egos.
I can turn into her when I need her. But at the same time, I learned to be vulnerable and not pressure myself to be that all the time. I stay true to myself by feeling what I have to feel and staying grounded.
Can you share more about your experiences as a queer artist? How does your identity inspire your music?
Well, I think when you go into my music catalog, there are a lot of things. I have [explored] so many genres. I think that's because I'm queer *laughs.*
I'm very fluid with myself, like with my masculine and feminine energy. My music is also like that- right now, I'm into R&B, I do all of the R&B stuff. But in every genre that I go to, I feel like there's a soul in it. It's just something that I feel I resonate with, and I put my soul into it, and I need to express that at that moment. So for me, that's... free. And being queer is being free.
What does queer visibility mean to you?
Courtesy of SILVY
It's very important. For me, Lady Gaga, for example, resonated with me because she also speaks about the LGBTQ community. Having more queer representative artists really makes the artists also feel like they are allowed to express themselves and be themselves. So, it's very important to have a community and also have people that support queer artists because it's pretty hard in the industry, especially if you're a female artist that is also gay.
It’s already hard to be a female artist, but if you're also a lesbian, it's harder, you know? So, yeah, we need more support, and we need to feel like we belong, like what we're doing, what we're giving, is being seen.
What has been the biggest lesson the music industry has taught you so far?
The music industry has taught me to keep on going. There are a lot of aspects to making it in the music industry. Maybe also luck! Also, the business, the team, and good music.
I've seen so many good artists with good music, but they, you know, don't pop out. Along the way, it's just, if you love what you're doing, you just need to keep on doing it. Have faith and love what you do, and hope people can see that you love what you're doing.
Courtesy of SILVYCourtesy of SILVY
Let's say you weren’t pursuing music. What do you think you'd be doing instead?
I think I would be a chef. I really enjoy cooking. I like cooking a lot. And I also love eating food. I am considering becoming a chef right now, like opening a restaurant and stuff.
What do you hope young fans take away from you and your music?
I think they love the authenticity, how honest my lyrics are, and how honest I show myself. Also, I've been independent recently. Before I was in a label with Warner Music Asia and also Warner Music Thailand. Now I'm independent, I feel like I'm in that era where I don't need much to feel like I am enough, I don't need to be a queen.
I still feel like a queen without the makeup, without the dress and stuff. I’m also having a talk and spiritual awakening with myself as well, and I think that the fans see that. I think they just like how bold and whatever direction I go with because I am always honest with what I choose.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians and rising stars?
If you love what you're doing, then that's enough already. Because along the way, you start to look at results more than how you enjoy the process of making, or how you enjoy loving what you do. Somehow you look at the results and just want to feel seen.
I think the more important part is if you enjoy what you're doing, if you love what you're doing, then that's done. You're on the right track already. And just be true to yourself and express yourself however you want to.
I love that! This is a little more personal. Looking back at your younger self, when you were first starting out, what would you tell yourself?
Courtesy of SILVY
I think I would tell myself to listen to the little voices in my head when people say, “I have to do this, do that.” There's always this voice that always says, “Huh, really?” I always think that what I'm doing is already enough. I don't need more than what I'm doing.
I would tell myself to trust my instincts, trust these little thoughts, love myself no matter what, and know that I am good. Just trust my own feelings more than others who don't even know my struggles.
What can fans expect from Silvy in the future? Are there any plans for new music, maybe a new album or upcoming singles?
This year, I'm focusing on releasing on my own. And I think the sound will be different, but it's just going to be more indie because I'm independent right now. Everything is more raw, more soul vibes, and definitely an album coming out this year!
Courtesy of SILVYCourtesy of SILVY
What can we expect from “indie” Silvy?
*Laughs* Indie Silvy! I think it's fun. It's going to be fun. It's going to be lively and soulful. And I’m going to sing, like, really sing.
I'm looking forward to it! Do you have any dream collabs?
If I'm aiming high, I would love to collaborate with Bruno Mars. Also Lady Gaga. But if someone that I'm very into right now — I love this artist, Orion Sun. I really love her. I love her music. I love everything about her. She's beautiful. Her voice is beautiful, her songs are very beautiful. It would be awesome to get to know her.
Can we look forward to any upcoming events or performances soon?
Courtesy of SILVY
I had a live performance in Thailand on the 2nd of June to celebrate Pride Month. It's very exciting for me.
Also, another project that is acting-related: I'm going to Brazil to do a series, act as one of the protagonists in a Brazilian series called “Beyond the Ocean.” So, I'm going to Brazil and will live there for two months. I'm going this June already. I'm playing a Thai character — a Thai actress in love with a Brazilian woman. It's GL, a girls' love series.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Follow SILVY on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates on her music, upcoming projects, and personal life. Make sure to stream her music on Spotify as well as her latest single ไม่เคยคิดว่าจะไม่มีเธออยู่ในชีวิต (gone) out now on Spotify!
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Only 10 days left to catch "AT give.me.museums exhibition: artnything else?" at Central Chidlom, where art, play, and dessert come together in an interactive exhibition running until May 30, 2026.
Held at the Event Hall on the second floor, the project is a collaboration between Central Chidlom and give.me.museums. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, the exhibition turns the Bangkok department store into a whimsical space where visitors can look, touch, pose, and even taste art.
Designed as more than a standard gallery show, the "artnything else?" event invites guest into a sensory experience built around the idea that anything can become art. Visitors are welcomed by the character Nong Due, who leads them into a playful world of imagination, immersive rooms, hands-on zones, and dessert creations styled like exhibition pieces.
Those planning to visit should note that an exhibition ticket is required for entry to the cafe zone.
Photo from Instagram/give.me.museumsPhoto from Instagram/Choco Project
The experience begins with installations that blur the line between viewer and artwork. The Flower Playground offers a more tactile experience, encouraging guests to interact with the artwork instead of simply viewing it from a distance.
Another highlight, the Little Moody Room, feels like entering the bedroom of a dreaming child, with a moodier, imaginative setup that leans into fantasy and curiosity.
For visitors looking to capture the experience, the Museum Studio recreates an artist's workspace with props, allowing guests to step into the role of creator. It is one of several photo-ready corners designed to make the exhibition feel participatory rather than passive.
Instagram/Choco Project
A major part of the project is the Choco/Museum/Project cafe zone, where the exhibition's edible art concept takes shape through chocolate-forward desserts and playful plating. One featured item is the "Give Me Chocolate Set," served on a palette-style tray. Another is the "Summer Garden Butter Cream Cake," which is decorated like a slice of a garden. Together, the desserts extend the exhibition's theme beyond the installations and into the cafe.
For more information and updates, follow give.me.museums on Instagram and Choco Project on Instagram.
AT give.me.museums exhibition: artnything else?
Location: Event Hall 2fl., Central Chidlom, 1027 Phloen Chit Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Dates: May 1 - 30, 2026
Time: 10:00am - 10:00pm
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The Eurovision Song Contest Asia 2026 is set to debut in Bangkok, with the Thai capital confirmed as the host city for the competition’s inaugural edition.
Announced by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in collaboration with Voxnation and regional partners, this new competition is the first multinational expansion of the long-running Eurovision Song Contest into Asia.
The first inaugural edition will bring together broadcasters from over 10 countries, including the Philippines, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand, alongside Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, and Nepal, with more to follow.
In true Eurovision fashion, each country will be selecting their entry through a national competition in the months leading up to the event. Much like its European counterpart, Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be following a 50% professional jury and 50% public voting system, with each entry performing for under three (3) minutes and with a maximum of six (6) people on stage.
Also, viewers will not be allowed to vote for their home country’s entry!
Photo from Website/Eurovision Song Contest
The Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest Asia 2026 is scheduled for Nov. 14, 2026, positioning the show as a new regional platform for cross-cultural exchange between Asia and Europe and original music on the global stage.
The winner of the competition will be invited to perform as a guest in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027.
Shaped and grounded on the theme, “United by Music,” this Asia edition aims to connect artists and audiences across borders, while highlighting the region’s diverse musical voices.
More details, such as the venue and final list of participants, will be announced in the future. For more information and updates, follow the Eurovision Song Contest on Facebook and Instagram.
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With the annual football cup competition, called the Thai FA Cup, being the talk of the town in Thailand lately, the football fever in Bangkok is undeniably at an all-time high, too. As Thailand welcomes the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the iconic trophy arriving in the country earlier this year, the FIFA World Cup hype is felt across the country. And with that comes high demand for football merch, as fans flock to support their favorite teams.
Good thing, the city is not only a treasure trove for tourists and shopaholics, but also one that caters to football fans, especially those seeking official football jerseys and other sports merchandise stores that offer authentic, collectible pieces.
Whether you’re just a casual fan supporting a local club or a devoted one hunting for authentic football gear, Bangkok is a perfect place to be. From well-known sports retailers to bustling markets, here are some of the best spots selling football merch to check out.
KAKA Sport
Photo from Website/KAKA Sport
KAKA Sport, open since 2008, is a popular stop among football fans, known for its wide selection of premium replicas of football kits, shirts, and other team kits. It is also well known for its budget-friendly football goods, making it a perfect store for fans who don’t want to break the bank.
You may also shop by league, whether you’re a LaLiga fan, a Serie A supporter, and more. There are also retro collections and mini football kits for kids, making the store all the more accessible for every type of fan. You may visit KAKA Sport’s official website for updates, new releases, and other information.
Location: 931 Soi Chulalongkorn 10, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Ari Football Concept Store
Photo from Facebook/Ari Gear
Ari Football Concept Store is a go-to destination for fans looking for officially licensed merchandise. A well-known football store across Thailand, the store boasts a number of branches, including one in Siam Square, One Bangkok, Central Westgate, The Crystal, The Mall Lifestyle Bangkapi, and Nakhon Pathom, as well as provincial branches in Korat, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Chiang Mai, among others.
Offering premium collections of boots, training gear, football jerseys, and more, Ari Football Concept Store is truly a place to go for everyone from casual fans hunting for stylish fan gear to even players seeking professional-quality football equipment. You may visit Ari Football Concept Store's official website for more details about their products, new releases, collaborations, and store locations.
Flagship Store Location: Siam Square Soi 6, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Sportsworld Thailand
Photo from Website/Sportsworld Thailand
Sportsworld Thailand is a popular choice for football fans seeking both official merchandise and fan gear. With multiple branches across the country — including in Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Chonburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Lamphun — the store stocks football jerseys, boots, training equipment, and other sports apparel from top international clubs and brands. In Bangkok, you can find their branch at Fashion Island.
Whether you’re after the newest kits, retro styles, or accessories, Sportsworld Thailand offers a convenient one-stop shopping experience for casual fans and dedicated collectors alike. More details about Sportsworld Thailand can be found on their official website.
Location: Ram Inthra Rd, Khan Na Yao, Bangkok 10230
Warrix
Photo from Website/Warrix
Warrix is known not only as a store renowned for premium football merchandise, but also as the official kit supplier for the Thai national football team. Whether you’re supporting the Thai national team during the Thai FA Cup or simply collecting quality football gear, Warrix provides products that are both stylish and high-quality.
From the newest Thai national team kits to stylish fan gear, Warrix offers something for every football supporter. For store information, products, and more, visit Warrix’s official website.
Location: 849/6-8 Stadium One, Rama VI Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok
Supersports Thailand
Photo from Website/Central Retail
Supersports Thailand is a one-stop shop for consumers looking for trusted, licensed products. Complete from Nike and Puma to FILA and Reebok, the store is a trusted retailer, offering a wide range of quality sports gear for all ages. And it’s also known for its football merchandise, ranging from shoes, club and national kits, shin guards, and even football team souvenirs.
Supersports Thailand is located across different parts of Bangkok, including in Chidlom, Central Chidlom, Central World, Central Ladprao, Central Bangna, Central Pinklao, Central Rama II, Central Rama III, Central Plaza Grand Rama, Silom Complex, Central Ramindra, and Central Festival Eastville, among others. For store location details, products, and more, you may visit Supersports Thailand’s official website.
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Calling all UFO believers — and the extraterrestrial-curious. Pop culture is set to host the first-ever UFO-themed festival this February 2026 at the Khun Dan Prakarn Chon Dam in Nakhon Nayok.
Dubbed as the country’s first event of its kind, the festival aims to gather UFO enthusiasts, alien-watchers, and curious travelers for a weekend dedicated to all things otherworldly. Often described as a niche subject met with raised eyebrows, mockery, and skepticism, UFO culture has found a steady, renewed interest worldwide in recent years, fueled by speculation and pop culture.
Photo from Facebook/Belief Fest
Thailand’s own extraterrestrial scene has also been quietly growing. In Nakhon Sawan, Khao Kala — often dubbed the “Area 51 of Asia” — has long been a hotspot among UFO enthusiasts, with past reports claiming sightings and landings in the area. The previously held “Belief Fest” also drew believers and curious visitors alike.
The upcoming festival forms a part of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)’s 2026 tourism strategy, which focuses on higher-quality, value-led travel experiences for travelers. This includes its “Amazing 5 Economy” framework, with the UFO festival falling under its Sub-Culture Economy category. The agency has also set a target of three million baht for the year.
Set against the backdrop of Thailand’s longest concrete dam, the festival is said to feature UFO-themed activities, sci-fi aesthetics, programs, and immersive experiences that celebrate UFO lore and the search for life beyond Earth.
Photo from Website/TripAdvisor
Further details are expected to be announced soon, so stay tuned for more updates!
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Bangkok, are you ready for a night filled with total mayhem?
International Drag Superstar Aquaria is set to perform in Asia for the first time for her upcoming tour, bringing her across five cities this January 2026. The Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 10 winner will kick off her tour in Taipei, followed by Bangkok, Manila, and Tokyo, before concluding her tour in Seoul.
Organized by One Heart Productions, Aquaria is set to bring the looks, the drama, and all the sickening glam to Asia for the first time.
“The Total Mayhem” in Bangkok
Photo from Instagram/ AquariaPhoto from Instagram/ Drag Race Thai Fans
Expect a gag-worthy lineup— from international drag superstars like Aquaria and Laganja Estanja, to local drag powerhouses and queens like Frankie Wonga, Zepee, Kandy Zyanide, and more at the Lady Gaga-inspired “The Total Mayhem” on Jan. 25, 2026, at the BEAT Active! The show is organized by Drag Race Thai Fans and Prism Galaxia, alongside One Heart Productions.
Tickets are now available via Megatix, priced at THB1,400 (GA Standing), THB1,500 (GA Seated), and THB2,900 (VIP).
Photo from Instagram/ AquariaPhoto from Instagram/ Aquaria
Playhouse Philippines, a production house excelling in showcasing Filipino drag excellence, is hosting its first major drag show titled, “INTER-STELLAR” this Jan. 30, 2026, at the Music Museum!
Expect Filipino drag royalty like Precious Paula Nicole, Eva Le Queen, Arizona Brandy, and much more alongside international drag superstars like Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 10 winner Aquaria and Laganja Estranja at this star-studded show!
Tickets are now available via Ticketmelon, priced at P900 (Balcony), P1,700 (Orchestra), P2,100 (VIP), and P2,600 (Platinum).
For more information and updates, follow The Playhouse on Facebook and Instagram, and One Heart Productions on Instagram.
Location: Music Museum, Level C Shoppesville Arcade 1500 San Juan City
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Thai alternative pop-rock band Tilly Birds has become one of Thailand’s most dynamic acts, known for their heartfelt lyricism, energetic performances, and ability to blur the lines between pop, rock, and soul. Formed in 2010 by friends Third (lead vocalist), Billy (guitarist), and Milo (drummer, rapper, vocals), the trio began making music together during their university years, slowly building a devoted following through songs that speak candidly about love, growth, and self-discovery.
In our latest exclusive, the band opened up about crossing the borders of their sound and language, most recently through their collaboration with Filipino folk-pop sensation Ben&Ben, a creative meeting that bridged cultures and deepened their shared storytelling spirit. They also reflected on memorable moments from the music video shoot in Batangas, how it symbolizes a new chapter in their artistic journey, and the creative challenges behind crafting their first fully English album — a project that promises to showcase their evolution to an even wider global audience.
Tilly Birds on their Heavenly Collaboration
The Thai band released their first all-English track, “White Pills,” in April 2024, an emotional song about feeling lost and longing for connection. They followed this up with “Retro-39” later that year, which took listeners back to the late nineties with its catchy melody that captures 21st-century nostalgia, all the while showcasing their growth as a band in the past decade.
This year, the band released their latest effort to bring more international listeners into their soundscape, which is also a step toward the much-anticipated release of their full-length English album.
“Heaven” is Tilly Birds’ collab track with Ben&Ben, whom they met in Malaysia back in 2024. From there, their relationship grew, and the trio ended up flying to Manila for a two-day song camp with the folk-pop band to put together the new track.
“It’s in the area of destiny, like it says we’re destined to meet here at this time,” said Third on the song’s messaging, which he also related to the meeting of their bands. “It’s quite exciting and liberating to have found each other and gotten to know each other, and eventually make a song together.”
Courtesy of Tilly Birds
The band’s drummer also added how both bands’ love for songs with an emotional core has helped tremendously in bringing their sounds together, which he described as “the main connection between us and Ben&Ben.”
When asked if there were any memorable moments during their collaboration, Third shared with The Beat Asia a playful story.
“The moment that stood out the most to me was when one of the members, Toni Muñoz, really looked like Billy’s mom. *laughs* No other moment can surpass or top that. We were like watching Toni record with her Tongatong — the percussion instrument — and we were talking about how she looked so familiar. Other than that, it was fun! It was quite joyful and we can’t wait to play with them again.”
The song was accompanied by a music video shot in Batangas. The vibrant video showed the band singing and playing their instruments against a countryside venue. Milo shared how the whole thing was actually unplanned, so it was a nice surprise for both groups.
“We changed everything to Plan B because it was raining cats and dogs,” he told The Beat Asia. “The only time that it didn’t rain within those three days was when we shot the drum parts — at 6 AM! But we enjoyed running and playing in the rain, and we didn’t miss a chance to shoot a great music video. It kind of gave us a break, too.”
As for what they hope listeners will take away from the song, Billy expressed how their goal is to create music that can be enjoyed by everyone.
“If you guys give it a listen and you feel happy, energetic, or it inspires you to get up and drive somewhere, or start doing something unexpected, that’s what we want. If you’re discovering our music for the first time, we hope you’ll enjoy our catalogue. Just expect to have fun and enjoy the music!”
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Tilly Birds has been around for over a decade, and through those years, the band was able to create a distinctive sound and character, but their music remains undefined. When the group gets asked about their genre, they would often answer “alternative.”
“As Tilly Birds is evolving musically, I think this song perfectly fits in this evolution because we’re on the verge of looking out to see what’s beyond what we’ve done with our previous albums,” Billy explained on how “Heaven” plays a role in their musical progression as a band. The track will be included in their upcoming third album, “I'll Remember To Forget You,” slated for release on Jan. 29, 2026. This marks a significant evolution in their careers, being the first album sung completely in English.
Photo from Facebook/Tilly Birds
“This album is really our exploration trip — us in this musical vehicle, driving forward and not looking back,” Billy added.
The album is composed of 13 tracks, including previously released singles “White Pills,” “Retro-39,” “Never a Waste of Time,” and “Call it a Day” — the last of which dropped this month.
When asked if there were any challenges in completing the album, Billy answered, “I think the biggest challenge was how it took quite a long time and has been revised many times. Many songs have been cut out, as well. I think it happened three times in the span of four years of making this album. It was hard to make this album cohesive — or a packaged album that feels like it was made at the same time, because some of the songs were three years apart. Making them sound cohesive was definitely a big challenge.”
Apart from Ben&Ben, the track list also showed a collaboration track with Thai-Singaporean singer James Alyn. When asked if they had anyone on their collab wish list, the trio was quick to agree that it’s something they want to do more in the future.
“For sure! We are driving towards cross collaboration, so expect more!” Billy said, and gave us a list of artists and groups that they hope to collaborate with, such as Indonesian band, The Lanterns; Singapore’s brb.; Taiwan’s Accusefive; and rising superstars Cup of Joe from the Philippines.
As for what’s next, the band looked back on their decade-long journey with gratitude and excitement. Their debut album marked the start of finding their own voice as a Thai band with a distinct, genre-defying sound, one that truly defined who they are. Now, as they prepare for their third album, they’re setting their sights on discovery, growth, and creating music that’s as fun as it is heartfelt for their fans. Fresh off their first HOWE Award win for Best Band, it’s clear that this is only the beginning of an even brighter chapter for Tilly Birds.
“We hope that you guys will keep waiting for anything that comes out from Tilly Birds,” said Third.
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If looking at regular MINISO stores seems a bit boring, why not head over to MINISO Land?
Chinese lifestyle brand MINISO, known for their cutest selection of almost everything you could think of, has opened their first-ever “MINISO Land” concept in Thailand!
Photo from Instagram/MINISO Thailand
Located at Siam Square, Bangkok’s most popular shopping spot, the 1000-square-meter space spans three floors and features more than 80 IP characters, including Harry Potter, Stitch, and Sanrio characters, alongside MINISO’s own IP line, DunDun Chicken, which finally debuted in the Thai market.
The opening of MINISO Land also saw the overseas debut of a new Disney ’s Zootopia collection, featuring beloved characters Nick Wilde, Judy Hopps, and other characters.
IP-based products make up about 80% of MINISO’s total range, which highlights the brand’s focus on character-driven retail experiences.
Photo from Instagram/MINISO Thailand
“This innovative store format has captured the attention in every location we opened, offering a more engaging retail experience to shoppers and breaking many of our own sales [records] in the process,” said Jun Wang, CEO of MINISO Thailand. “The new store underlines our commitment to the region and reflects our goal to reimagine traditional retail with innovative experiences and imaginative design.”
The MINISO Land concept first debuted in Shanghai in 2024 and has since expanded to 15 locations across China. MINISO also plans to roll out more experiential stores in Thailand in the near future, in areas particularly frequented by younger shoppers.
Earlier this year, MINISO opened its newest flagship store in Bangkok at the Asiatique Riverfront.
Follow MINISO on Instagram for updates and new product drops!
Location: Siam Square Soi 8, Bangkok, Thailand
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There’s something about Bangkok in December. The air is electric, the nights stretch longer, and the bass gets deeper. It’s not just the holiday buzz. It’s the return of 808 Festival, the city’s most explosive electronic music gathering, coming back from Dec. 5 to 7, 2025 at BITEC Bangna. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like when a city dances in sync with some of the world’s biggest DJs, this is it.
Now in its 12th edition, 808 Festival has grown from a local one-day rave into a full-blown international showcase. It’s where Southeast Asia meets the global EDM circuit, and this year’s Phase 1 lineup proves it.
Photo from Website/808 Festival
This year’s lineup is presented in a way that reflects the festival’s genre-fluid ethos. Among the standout names is Charlotte de Witte, Belgium’s techno powerhouse known for her dark, driving sets and minimalist precision. Also featured is Sammy Virji, the UK garage trailblazer whose infectious basslines and cheeky energy have earned him a cult following. His appearance at the 808 Festival lands right in the middle of his debut Asia tour.
The roster also includes genre-spanning talent like Dom Dolla (house), Indira Paganotto (psytech), Juliet Fox (techno), Maddix (big room), Odd Mob (electro-house), Pan-Pot (Berlin techno), Reinier Zonneveld (live acid techno), HNTR (melodic techno), Space 92 (peak-time techno), and William Kiss (tech-house). It’s a lineup designed to move across BPMs and moods, offering something for every kind of raver.
Photo from Website/808 FestivalPhoto from Website/808 Festival
The venue, BITEC Bangna, is built for scale. With massive indoor and outdoor stages, cutting-edge visuals, and a crowd that knows how to move, it’s the perfect playground for a festival that doesn’t believe in half-measures. The festival will feature synchronized laser shows, towering LED walls, and the kind of sound system that makes your bones vibrate.
Tickets are now on sale. While Early Bird tickets are sold out, General Admission Tier 1 3-Day Passes are priced at THB3,850. For those chasing the luxe life, VVIP Premium packages start at THB250,000 for six guests with bottle service, while VVIP Supreme packages begin at THB425,000 for eight guests.
Secure your spot now at 808 Festival’s official website and be part of the beat that moves Bangkok. Make sure you follow the festival on Instagram and Facebook for another round of lineup announcements and other information.
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The TRAVELER’S COMPANY Stamp Caravan is heading to Thailand for the very first time. Beloved by stationery lovers worldwide for their travel-themed stationery, notebooks, custom parts, and original goods, the TRAVELER’S COMPANY is bringing their 2025 Stamp Caravan edition across eight stores in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Chiang Mai, together with a special lineup of limited-edition stamps and stickers for the occasion.
Photo from Instagram/TRAVELER'S COMPANY
Fans and stationery enthusiasts are invited to drop by participating stores, meet fellow TRAVELER’S notebook users, and collect exclusive stamps to personalize their notebooks with. Each stop will feature unique designs inspired by the creative spirit and beauty of travel and journaling.
The TRAVELER’S COMPANY Stamp Caravan kicks off on Oct. 17, 2025 and will continue until Dec. 14, 2025.
Photo from Instagram/TRAVELER'S COMPANY
Here is the schedule for the Stamp Caravan:
Kinokuniya centralwOrld store (Bangkok): Oct. 17 to 26, 2025
STUDIO360 at THIRDBASE (Bangkok): Oct. 17 to 26, 2025
Kinokuniya EmQuartier store (Bangkok): Oct. 31 to Nov. 9, 2025
Wynn’s (Bangkok): Oct. 31 to Nov. 9, 2025
Kinokuniya Siam Paragon store (Bangkok): Nov. 21 to 30, 2025
Woot Woot Store (Nonthaburi): Nov. 21 to 30, 2025
Lamune (Nonthaburi): Dec. 5 to 14, 2025
PLAYWORKS (Chiang Mai): Dec. 5 to 14, 2025
For more details and information, visit the participating stores’ websites and Instagram pages. Follow the TRAVELER’S COMPANY on Facebook and Instagram for more details and products.
Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.
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