Public sex performances in patpong and explorations of the edges of imagination1

Abstract

This paper draws on observations of sex acts, including dances, pornographic tricks and intercourse, performed in four bars in the central area of sex tourism in Bangkok, Patpong. Following a discussion of the nature of dramatic pornography, and discursive and interpretive issues which arise from the nature of the inquiry, the paper describes and analyses the acts, which are treated as a commentary on Thai understandings of (western) male sexuality. These acts are varied and structured to maximize their capture of libidinal fantasy and erotic and violent imagination for commercial purpose. At the same time, the physical positioning of the performers and the texts of various acts provide them with an opportunity for silent satire of the voyeur/patrons. While in structure and content the acts are similar to those performed in night clubs and bars elsewhere in Southeast Asia and the west, the paper also examines ways in which the repertoire draws on indigenous erotic performance. The paper then proceeds to locate public sex performance within the extensive sex industry of Thailand. It explains local accommodation of sex work in terms of the moral significance of paid sex and the structural location of prostitution within the social organisation of reproduction and production.