Within the first few minutes of the performance, we are momentarily plunged into the spotlight – Mamoru and associate sex specialist, Afton Moran ask us to forget our title as ‘the audience’ and take up the new title of ‘students at Summerhall school’. With our new roles in mind, we watch the action unfold from the perspective of individuals looking not only to learn about sex, gender and identity, but also be entertained by it.

The show is visually imaginative with an array of props, costume and snazzy background graphics to encourage our learning and interest. I also can’t forget several very fitting song selections which categorise the shift into various sections throughout – particularly memorable was Irene Cara’s ‘Flashdance… What A Feeling’ which I’m sure needs no explanation in its representation of a section on pleasure (hehe) and Minnie Riperton’s ‘Loving You’ which plays during a section about sex and love.

We witness a variety of montages throughout, some with impressively thoughtful detail and observation however, I felt as though much of the action relied heavily on, and was carried by, the use of the props, sound and movement sequences, with the dialogue not quite landing to the same effect.

Having said that, nearing the end, our sex experts open up a significantly personal conversation around gender neutrality and acceptance surrounding non-binary descriptions and rights. The tone here shifts effectively and the presentation becomes more about an opportunity for an open and crucial discussion which leaves prop and costume assistance to one side.

An enjoyable, instructive, visually engaging performance that embraces the audience in a fresh and fun way – running 20^th – 22^nd August and 27^th – 29^th August. 1pm/3pm.
1 Summerhall, Edinburgh, EH9 1PL, Venue 26. It’s sold out but check back for any returns! Tickets here.