The tag line for the 2013 Everything to Do With Sex Show urged visitors to “let it all hang out,” which is a wonderful, if cheeky, way to espouse the event’s fun-loving, shameless, let-your-hair-down nature.
Unfortunately, the “let it all hang out” moments seemed few and far between at an exhibition that was more about shilling than thrilling.
Those who expected a mesmerizing sexual spectacle were in for a disappointment. Most of what your entry fee got you was the right to be targeted by hawkers of sex toys, porn videos, lingerie and a seemingly endless variety of sex paraphernalia.
I give full credit to all the booth-occupying merchants, who boasted a boundless enthusiasm for their products and went out of their way to make even the most timid of visitors comfortable. But despite a few intriguing items for sale (the sex card games looked quite fun and the $15 edible underwear seemed downright practical compared to the pricey food fare available), the lack of show was evident.
The demonstrations that were on hand were certainly popular, but they were lacking engagement and participation. Many observers were eager to witness someone take the challenge of riding the straddle vibrator, but few dared to give it a spin. Likewise for the whip showcases and the dominatrix corner. More common were the smatters of nervous laughter from those who were bold enough to attend but still wished to keep a safe distance.
At one point on the main stage of the exhibition, the show’s emcee seemed visibly agitated by the buttoned-down crowd as he repeatedly and determinedly urged spectators to vocally respond to the Latex, Leather and Lace Fashion Show they were watching. In general, this was a crowd that was primarily in attendance for the spectacle rather than being a part of the goings-on.
All in all, this year’s Everything to Do With Sex show offered some revealing (pun intended) insight into not only the intriguing — if underwhelming — annual showcase, but also into Toronto’s embrace (or lack thereof) of unabashed sexuality.
