Review of MindFuck Workshop at Toys in Babeland
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| Workshop | "Mindfuck--Sex Between the Ears": an introduction to the erotic art of adult roleplaying |
|---|---|
| Location | Toys in Babeland (Seattle) |
| Instructors | Jodi and Tess |
| Date | Wednesday, Oct. 6, 7-9pm, 1999 |
| Cost | $10-30 sliding scale |
| Participant skill level | introductory instruction |
| Instructor skill level | skilled at topic and teaching |
| Organization | on time and coordinated |
| Site | comfortable |
About 30 people crowded into the Toys retail space for this weeknight workshop. The cheerful staff set up a card table with candles and a rose, generating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
The advertisements made clear that "mindfuck" here meant roleplaying. The teachers covered the basics of setting up BDSM scene, then wisely deferred further questions, pointing people to BDSM books for more information.
Jodie and Tess started by asking participants to talk about their expectations and hopes for the workshop. (They closed the loop by asking at the end of the night if everyone's questions had been addressed). The workshop was structured so that everyone had a chance to participate in active learning. The teachers led a gentle meditation and visualization to get creative energy going. They passed out paper for everyone and gave us five minutes to jot notes about fantasies. Then they did a brainstorming session where peole called out possibilities for roles: doctor, movie star, police officer, fireman.
Now that everyone had an idea to work with, the co-teachers talked about setting up a scene. They covered costuming, props, setting the stage, getting into the mood. Jodi disappeared while Tess was talking. Tess put on a nurse's smock as a costume demonstration and talked about getting into a scene frame of mind. Jodi re-appeared in the audience in a dress and wig and called out, "Excuse me, I feel faint, can you help me?" That started their scene demonstration: Tess examined Jodi, taking her pulse and testing her knee, and could find nothing wrong with her. Then Jodi revealed herself as--a nurse quality inspector! She turned the tables on Tess and showed her how to conduct a real examination!
It took a lot of courage to do a scene in front of an audience. Tess said later it felt very much like acting. It was great for the participants to see how a scene progresses--how to get responses from your partner, how to deal with unexpected glitches and not let them interrupt the scene's flow, and how to enjoy yourself and have fun.
The teachers are technically competent, but just as importantly, they are focused and enthusiastic. The smooth organization of the event let us concentrate on the material rather than the surroundings. I'd highly recommend this class and these teachers. I'll be very interested to see future classes at Toys.
The workshop reminded me of a period in my sexual life when I did a lot of roleplaying--the made shiek and the kidnapped tourist, the Japanes prince and princess playing go. The workshop provided me with a jumping off point for conversation. My companion and I compared our notes from the "jot down your fantasy" section and talked about possible fantasies we might try.
For further reading:
Basic BDSM books recommended by Tess and Jodi:
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