So how did the Salon of Shame go? I know I keep saying this every time, but last night was definitely the best one ever. Here’s why:

1. It sold out 10 minutes after the doors opened. This was actually both a good thing and a really bad thing. We turned away dozens of people, including several friends of mine. I haven’t had to deal with this level of packed house before, so while I saved seats for the deaf friends who were coming, I didn’t do things like save seats for, oh, THE READERS. This meant that there was a bit of a scramble when some readers showed up after we’d already sold out.

2. The sign language interpreter added a whole, delicious, amazing level of awesomeness to the whole thing. Let’s be clear here: readings aren’t especially visually exciting. When you have someone on the side of the stage who’s emphatically signing things like “COCKRING!” and “WINE COOLERS!” it makes the whole shebang way, way better. I want the terp there every time!

3. My blowjob reading was by far the most embarrassing thing I’ve ever presented in public, and it went over great — I think mainly because Pam, the interpreter, had a lot of fun with signing out things like “When the man in question is about to cum, put the whole penis in your mouth. DO NOT GAG!!” Listen to most of my reading by clicking here.

4. My friends who were sitting around my father during my reading reported that he muttered supportive comments like, “Yes, that’s an effective technique” while I read. BEST! DAD! EVER!

5. There were so many awesome readings last night, but I think my favorite was from Bill, who read three letters he’d written (and sent!) to himself from his imaginary girlfriend. Their “relationship” was full of turmoil and jealousy and begging forgiveness. As one person shouted from the back of the room, “YOU WIN!”

The only problem with the Salon of Shame right now is that it’s becoming a victim of its own success. The theater only holds about 70 people and last night we probably had about 100 show up. I’m resistant to moving to a bigger space because the Jewelbox Theater is so perfect with its red curtains and food/booze service and because the intimacy is really an important part of the event.

I guess the moral of the story is that if you want to come to the Salon, you better show up early. I felt extra bad for the folks who showed up around 7 and then went and got a drink at the bar without buying tickets. When they wandered up to the door with their beers at 7:30, we had to turn them away. Sad! I hope they come back in September.

Updates:
• Jill blogged her reading, which included the quote “I wish I had a different family. Or at least a taller father.”
• There are some pictures here.