Of the many things we love about the Circuit scene, probably the most relevant is the vibe it promotes; the fact that – in a world that tolerates the man-hag Ann Coulter; in a time that the country can sit by and watch as California passes Proposition 8 – we still have a place of respite: an oasis of camaraderie, music, and release where we can gather as a GLBT community and let ourselves breathe.
Those who haven’t experienced the joy of the Circuit may never truly understand it. Millions of people have experienced the adrenaline rush of an exciting experience, such as the thrill of a roller coaster, having the lights flicked on at their surprise party, or feeling their heart in their throat as they step off a bungee platform. The Circuit takes those feelings of anticipation, suspense and awe, and morphs them into a shared experience that lasts for hours on end. Who couldn’t love that?
In keeping with the theme of our current issue, I wanted to present a few pieces of advice to my fellow Circuiteers: little ways in with each of us can enhance the love we feel for the Circuit, and make it even more appealing to those who are to follow us.
o I like it wet. When you go through the trouble of trekking across the crowded dance floor to buy more water for yourself and your friends, get an extra bottle. When you begin the hunt for your friends back on the floor, hand that bottle to a cute guy who catches your eye. Better yet, hand it to a guy who maybe isn’t catching anyone’s eye. It’s a great way to make someone feel appreciated, and it only costs a few bucks. Note: make sure your bartender hasn’t already cracked the seal around the bottle cap, or your beneficiary may think you’re trying to drug him. “Thanks but no, Mr. Dahmer.”
o What? You need a taxi? One of the things we love about the Circuit is the opportunity it gives us to play. We dress in elaborate costumes, paint our bodies, and look for any trendy light-up toys we can find to draw attention to ourselves. Another great thing? The music. I’ve paid my arm and leg, and am here to be amazed by the big names in the DJ world. What I didn’t pay for: to have my eardrums blown out by whistles. Referee- or fingers-in-the-mouth-style: it’s all the same. If you’re trying to praise the DJ, he or she can’t hear you; but I can. And I’m plotting against you. Whistles are for football fields and hailing cabs. Now, let’s dance!
o Rock your body. Not mine. At every event, especially in its later hours, we are used to seeing a couple caught up in the moment, with their arms around each other, swaying back and forth to the music. Face to face or front to back, with their eyes closed and clearly in their "happy place," we watch them sway. Then the rocking gets wider... like two buildings from the movie "Earthquake," these fellows lean precariously to one side, and then the other, and then back again. Miraculously, they never fall. What these revelers seemingly fail to realize is that as they sway in each direction, they are aggressively knocking into the people around them. Not brushing-by mind you, but drink-spilling full-contact rugby scrumming. Sometimes the wobbly goings-on include a third or even a fourth partner. Thanks. We call this the "k-hole conga." Please: stop the madness.
o Say, Cheese! Remember: the Circuit is supposed to be a safe-haven from bigotry and all-around nastiness. Why not add an extra kernel of love to the oasis? Enjoy the music, hang with your friends, and cruise the hotties, but in the midst of it all, look around at the people who are a part of your community - your world - and give them your best smile! Did someone bring a girlfriend to a largely male event? Give her a wink and tell her it's nice to see her here! A little twink is covered in glitter? Give him a thumbs-up and tell him his look is "somethin' else." A lot of the people around you are making bold moves to embrace their identity here. Recognize them for it! A little love can go a long way, and if someone is eyeing you, watching you be kind to others just makes you that more appealing. Save the attitude for the runway, Heidi... this is a family affair.
What else do you love about the Circuit? What changes could make you love it more? I'd love to hear about it from you. E-mail me at AskDrMark@justcircuit.com. Better yet: go out there and make them happen. Until next time, let that love shine!
