SAN FRANCISCO - The annual Exotic Erotic Ball and Expo will be held at Treasure Island in San Francisco this year, having outgrown its usual location, the Cow Palace.
According to show producer Howard Mauskopf, the move will allow dramatically increased size, scale and spectacle for the elaborate two-day production.
"We had big fun at the Cow Palace and threw some of our best parties ever at that site," he said. "On Treasure Island, we will have greater flexibility and all the space we could possibly want. Plus, it's one of San Francisco's most idyllic and scenic waterside locations, with unparalleled panoramic bay views, and it has its own spicy and salacious past, just like the ball."
Mirian Saez, director of island operations for the Treasure Island Development Authority, said the authority is pleased to welcome large-scale groups and events, especially those that are part of local history, benefit the San Francisco community, make economic impact and have track records for philanthropy.
"We want more and more people to realize that Treasure Island has great and unique venues," she said. "So we're especially excited to be hosting the Exotic Erotic Ball in 2008 and beyond."
The Exotic Erotic Ball has fostered strong community ties for more than two decades. The event has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities supporting freedom of expression and people affected by AIDS, domestic violence and child abuse.
Perry Mann, founder of the Exotic Erotic Ball, said the 2008 ball will be the biggest extravaganza in the event's history.
"I am doubling the prize money for our legendary costume contests from $10,000 to $20,000, so I am expecting to see the most outrageous and creative outfits ever," he said. "I am also adding a giant erotic-art installation and inviting all Bay Area erotic artists, working in all mediums from paint to sculpture to photography, to contact us to participate."
Mann said the ball will show a renewed commitment to independent music by working with associates at SonicBids to host a national competition for prime gigs at the event.
The ball has featured headline performances by artists such as Joan Jett, Chris Isaak, Madonna, Snoop Dogg, Grace Jones, Greg Allman and Everclear. The event also has featured several celebrity guests and more than 1,000 top burlesque, fetish and novelty acts.
The expo features more than 100 exhibits showcasing the latest in erotic fashion, erotic art, adult products, games, websites and novelties, as well as panel discussions on First Amendment rights, fashion shows and a "Human Petting Zoo."
The expo will be held from 2-10 p.m. Oct. 24 and from noon-6 p.m. Oct. 25 with the Exotic Erotic Ball to be held after the expo closes on Saturday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. The expo will run concurrently with the Ball till 2 a.m. until the ball closes.
For more information, call 415-567-2255.
