Participant 8: Anonymous
(Completed on 13th February 2017, Singapore)

1) Why do you choose to be anonymous in this documentation?
The performance was private and personal, and I feel the same way about revealing my identity only to those involved. Some people view public nudity as offensive/uneasy and I don’t think I’m bothered to explain to these people why I wanted to be a part of it.

2) What were your thoughts and feelings when you first read about Undressing Room?
Undressing another person can be erotic, caregiving in nature. I have to admit that I thought about the potential sexual context when I read details about it being a one-on-one performance. I also wondered if I understood the format correctly because it didn’t sound commercially viable and it went against the ticketing norm.

Nudity is always intriguing, regardless of the context. Our society somewhat perceives nudity as taboo, making it almost a crime to walk around nude in your own home. Undressing Room sounds like it is exploring the possibilities beyond solo nudity, and why/how that may be acceptable/lead to different reactions between the two parties in close proximity. The concept is a bold attempt at challenging the performing arts parameters and to embrace being in our own skin. So why not check out what the Undressing Room intends to achieve. 

3) Describe your experience of Undressing Room.
I entered the first room at least ten mins before my slot but was told I was too early. I waited outside for a bit and was feeling a little overwhelmed by the crowd who were there for another show. I thought about whether there would be any privacy but managed to be less nervous about it after a while.

When I was given the briefing, the only surprise I had was about how the entire performance would be conducted in silence. I didn’t expect that. Other than that, it was pretty reassuring. It was clear that careful considerations were made to protect Ming and the participant.

Entering the second room was pretty nerve-wrecking. Seeing Ming in the white garment, sitting and staring into each other was the start of a familiarisation process for me. It was awkward but necessary to make each other gain some comfort level before the next phase. Oddly, I enjoyed the process of looking into each others eyes. Made me think about what Ming was thinking and whether he felt as awkward.

I couldn’t wait to be undressed and to undress when it came to the moment. It was like going into a tango dance, waiting to see the next move, waiting to be led and to lead. I thoroughly enjoy the process of getting naked and being in close proximity. I kept thinking about what I could and could not do, but also tried to go with the flow as much as possible. The main consideration was whether I would go overboard… and what was considered overboard.

Entering the third room was like the morning after. Talking about the experience and getting to know each other better. It was comforting again to know both parties enjoyed the process, and the expectations of other sessions after mine.

4) What was it like for you, being a participant in Undressing Room?
Liberating. Erotic. Novel. I wanted to be physically close and comfortable. As much as possible. I felt that Ming was growing very comfortable too and I took the cue to be even closer but without overstepping the boundary. At certain points, I really wanted to be sexual with Ming, especially when I saw Ming’s reaction. Never before have I taken part in something so provocative. I achieved what I set out to try and I’m still hoping for more sessions.

The most challenging part was letting go of preconceived thoughts of how the event could turn out. I wanted to not overthink it, so that I could go with the flow and enjoy the experience.

5) How was it for you to undress each other and touch each other’s naked skin?
I really loved it. It felt close, warm and very sensual. Certainly very exhilarating. There was a lot of arousal. But I think we both tried to keep ourselves in check. I saw pre-cum oozing from Ming and that made me feel good, like I was on the right track. I wanted to do more, for sure. But I didn’t because I didn’t think that would be appropriate to do in a performance, which was about being at ease with fully nudity, without necessarily progressing to the next sexual stage. It was also out of respect for the performer.

6) What did you get out from the whole experience?
Nudity is extremely pleasurable. But there’s some level of discomfort or unfamiliarity that we have to get through first, before entering into the pleasure zone. Being in full nudity and to embrace in less than half an hour was definitely memorable. It also grew my sexual desires immediately after the show. I think the silence made the experience even more intriguing and intimate cos we were forced to communicate physically and not be distracted by anything else. For me, Undressing Room is a statement of shared liberation and intimacy.

7) Did you feel unsafe or threatened at any point in Undressing Room?
Not at all. I felt respected as a participant and I would have had full control if I wanted to own it throughout.

8) Would you participate in Undressing Room again?
I would for several reasons. I want to know if there will still be any sense of awkwardness or nervousness after the first time. And I also want to see if I’ll dare myself to be more proactive and daring in leading moves.

9) Other comments.
When can I get the next session?