Fishnets Fetishes & Fun

Just as the monotony of daily routines begin to take hold, yet another opportunity to unleash the inner 'id' is coming to Axis Nightclub at 9 p.m. Oct. 15, with the return of Eroticon, the event formerly known as Stimuli. \nThis 20th appearance of Eroticon, an erotic convention, is packed with contests, booths and events guaranteed to titillate. "Basically, it's a fun, safe place for people to creatively express their sensuality," said Leyna Wallace, media spokesperson for Sessions Inc., who is organizing the event. \nAll are welcome, but leave your taboos at home for this one, as it's a far cry from the free love refrain of the '60s. There is nothing free about it, but anyone dressed in erotic attire will get in for $10, so be sure and find a pair of fishnet stockings and sassy stilettos. Ladies are encouraged to do the same. All others will pay $20, which is certainly added incentive to foster the fetishist within. All proceeds will benefit the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom and local services for people living with AIDS/HIV.\nAs the name suggests, Eroticon involves all things erotic, and whatever suits the fancy will likely be found. From a bondage booth to fire art to edible (insert imagination), the events of the evening promise a night to remember. \nLeading the stage acts will be Fantalesque Burlesque, a local group that brings a not-so-subtle fusion of old time cabaret and modern sensuality, complete with bustiers and belly dancing. \nAnother local group, The Different Drummer Belly Dancers, will also leave jaws dropping with their mixture of modern music and belly dancing, with roots in Middle Eastern and East Indian techniques. "Belly dancing is life ... the rest is just merely walking," insists Margaret Lion, founder of the group, adding that it is the pilates of antiquity. Enthusiasm like that is sure to bring an energized performance. \nAlso hitting the stage will be the Indianapolis-based Stinkee Beetle Tribe. No need for bug juice, but marshmallows are recommended, as the fire display is sure to be scorching. "The Stinkee Beetle Tribe combines African and Middle Eastern-inspired dancing, tribal drumming and daring feats of skill and dexterity," explains Molly Block, an original member of the group. Blending hand drumming with fire art, the SBT provides an array of incendiary delights, including poi, in which balls of fire are attached to a string and twirled in rhythm. Performers, such as Wildfire and Zen Gorilla Fire, will pack the inferno-filled schedule with acts that include double batons, fire fingers (think Wolverine, with fire), devil sticks, staff, fire eating and fire breathing. Needless to say, no Wild Turkey should be consumed during this portion of the evening. \nAnyone with a sweet tooth is sure to appreciate the Edible Beauties, who take the sinful pleasure of chocolate to a whole new level. Leave the spoons and ice cream in the kitchen, as they come covered in chocolatey goodness from the get-go. \nWhile the school year has only just begun, some students (not to mention administration) surely merit a good spanking by now, and Eroticon will also provide the perfect opportunity for the discipline they deserve. Coming from northern Indiana, House Panopticon will be holding a BDSM "playspace." In case anyone is unfamiliar with the saucy jargon, BDSM stands for bondage, dominance, sadism and masochism (and people say you don't learn anything in college!). For those nostalgic for Bob Knight's coaching strategies, this could certainly take the edge off, though no chair-tossing will be involved. Choking and head-butts are optional, however. \nFor anyone who finds the liquid courage coursing through the blood stream, House Panopticon will also provide some alone time with a dominatrix and they also encourage couples to enter the playspace. "We are trained professionals who can provide a fun experience in a safe mode where we really monitor to make sure no one gets hurt," assures "Mistress Moth," head mistress of Panopticon, whose motto is "safe, sane and consensual." "We want people to have fun!" she adds. A 'try-it booth' will also be on-hand to allow a try-before-you-buy opportunity for those unsure which boudoir products suit particular tastes. All five senses will be involved with the wide selection of products available.\nThe sex-positive activism booth will also have an integral place at Eroticon, and indeed, this booth provides an essential element of the evening. With a mission of openness and acceptance, this booth underscores the event, so it should certainly be sought out at some point during the night. \nA variety of contests will also be adding spice to the festivities, with a panel of local celebrity judges getting in on the action. First up will be the kissing contest. Spit-swapping is the name of the game, so bring passion and consensual groping to the stage for any chance of winning. A boot 'n shoe contest will also take place, allowing all the guys and gals to strut their stiletto-ed stuff. There will also be a "destitute" diva contest in which contestants are given 10 minutes to compose a sexy costume out of such supplies as duct tape, plastic wrap, feathers and the like. In the finale contestants get 30 seconds to strut their stuff on stage, sporting the best and brightest, or darkest, outfits of the evening. With a theme like this, the potentials are limitless. \nSo come out and spend a night bonding with people from all walks of life, in a benefit for a good cause. The National Coalition for Sexual Freedom and the local services for people living with AIDS/HIV will be eternally grateful for a good turnout. Dig deep in the closet and wipe the dust off that outfit. After all, parents' weekend is just around the corner.