Who are these festivals and workshops for?
They are for the curious and the brave of all genders, sexual orientations and abilities. They are for singles and couples, and for people in their early twenties up to their sixties. Our presenters are selected with a concern that a diversity of ages, gender and sexual orientations is represented at the festival.
What is their purpose?
On the one hand, their purpose is to create a space where people can feel more confident and free to express their desires. On the other hand, it is to promote emotional maturity and intelligence.
Will there be nudity?
Some activities at the festival will be clothing optional, which means you are welcome to take off as much clothes as you feel comfortable. If a clothing optional workshop is not your thing, there will be other activities on at the same time, which are clothes on.
Will there be pair and group work? If yes, how will the pairing be done?
Yes, there will be pair and group work. Couples are welcome. People arriving as singles (or couples that like to play with other people) will be paired randomly for various activities. Please note: all exercises can be taken only to the level that's right for you at the time.
Can I work exclusively with one partner?
Yes, if you arrive with them. (You may also bump into someone you know, or meet someone, and decide to do activities with them).
Can I sit out of any activity?
Yes, you may sit out of any activity, or participate only to a level that's right for you.
Will there be a gender balance at the festival?
We endeavour to have an equal gender balance for the festival, but be prepared sometimes to work with people of your own gender.
What is your policy on safety and consent?
Our intention is to create a space that is as safe as possible where all activity is consensual. Before attending a festival every participant receives a framework which will enable them to express their wishes and boundaries in clear ways. There will also be exercises which will help people to learn to read "body consent", which supports verbal communication. People who act in a non-consensual fashion, or who make others feel uncomfortable will be asked to leave. People who are unduly aggressive to other participants or staff will also be asked to leave.
We believe in a dignity of risk approach to erotic education. Rather than insisting that people practice certain activities in certain ways, we believe in respecting each individual's autonomy and self-determination to make choices for themselves. While all care is taken to make the space as safe as possible, we cannot guarantee that you will not experience any emotional disturbance or discomfort during the festival. Often this discomfort is part and parcel of finding oneself in a new environment and/or learning something new. Many years of experience have taught us that the best way to keep the festival fun and consensual is to make people aware of the risks of certain kinds of behaviour and to empower them to take responsibility for themselves first.
Why do we not sell tickets for individual workshops?
The festival is designed as a space where you will meet people and have experiences you've never had before. It is intended to be a fully integrated experience, which includes much more than the workshops. The pauses in which you will re-connect and share with others what you've learned are an essential part of the process. Because selling tickets to individual workshops goes against our overall philosophy, we simply don't do it.
What will I need to bring for the event? What shall I wear?
A water-bottle is advisable. Tea, coffee and snacks will be provided. We recommend you wear loose fitting comfortable clothes to participate in both body-based workshops as well as discussion-based workshops. For some workshops, it is recommended you bring a towel or a sarong. You may also wish to bring a change of clothing. It is strongly advised you bring some elegant or sexy costumes for evening activities. If you don't have any, please let us know in advance, so we can have some on location for you.
Does the venue have facilities for elderly and disabled people?
Yes, it does. The venue is wheelchair accessible.
What do I do if I wish to exchange or re-sell my ticket?
All Ticket Sales are non-refundable and non-exchangeable with anyone else. Should it turn out that after having purchased your ticket you are unable to come to the festival, you may receive a credit for another event in the future.
Who produces Erotic Living ?
Erotic Living is produced by Xplore Festival Sydney Incorporated (INC 9894818), a non-for profit association registered with Fair Trading NSW.