July 21-27, 2005

mixpicks

Rubber Necking

by A.D. Amorosi

FETISH BALL

Kali Morgan, owner of sex/fantasy-gear boutique Passional, orchestrates two publicly minded activities other than running her shop: the Diabolique Charity Ball in November and the decadent midsummer Libertine Ball. Based on the pleasure principles of the local fetish community, this is one affair where you won't be criticized for whipping out the ball gag; a strict dress code ensures that no costume — spandex, leather, latex, body stockings, drag, tuxes, togas and masks are all game — means no entry. Sorry voyeurs. This go-round, Libertine is deflowering Atlantic City. Because New Jersey's liquor law means participants have to keep genitalia and female nipples covered at all times, those in semi-transparent digs and heavy costume alike will get the full fetish treatment. "That's what Libertine's about; a lavishly kinky costume extravaganza with all the props and decor to bring sweetest dreams and nightmares to life," says Morgan of the event's Voyage to Atlantis theme. From Club Tru (where the ball takes place) to Surfside Hotel's Oak Piano Bar (where a Pervy Piano Mixer and kinky karaoke sing-along occur), every location and activity is fetish-ready. That means Drag Night at Studio Six, a Hot Ash cigar reception with Mr. Philadelphia Leather, a latex-and-leather pool party with contests for fastest seahorse and deepest dillie diver, and a bash where Erotic Workbench will bind you, Zonk flag-spinning will blind you and Polymorphe Fashion, Vesago and DJ Barney will shiver your timbers in Neptune's Chamber.

The Libertine Ball VII: Voyage to Atlantis, July 22-23, $45, Atlantic City, NJ, tickets may be purchased online at www.libertineball.com or at Passional, 704 S. 5th St., 215-829-4986.