The room was a palette of colors, mats strewn across the floor, as scenes began to open up in each area. My eyes moved across the participants, some dressed up for the scenery in costumes creating a more inviting experience to the visions they created with their ropes. I found myself unable to focus on one for a solid amount of time as my eyes kept darting to each part of the room, curious to see what ties were being created on each mat. The sounds of floggers heard around the room, light laughter, squeals and giggles. A curious sound of a plunger suctioning onto the flesh of someone suspended.

My favorite of the night was the lion leaping through the dangling hoop by the skilled tamer that had carefully suspended her there.

I could feel the pulse of energy in the room as everyone was very into the scene they were creating.

very well done, and a lovely delicious spread of food as well.

Thank you to everyone who took their time to learn and develop their skill set, I recommend the experience to anyone who desires to see a multitude of ideas in one setting.

I did not have a tying partner to savor the experience with but simply watching is a sensation in itself and a good way to decide where your interests lie.

I’m glad I decided to come be a part of the night.

I’ve been in the community for years, but this was my first ATU party. I loved how inclusive it was. The scenes were fun and eye opening, and left me wanting to try something new. I look forward to more events!

DCM was my first play party with ATUSD and my second event with them. Overall just a great group of quality people – kind, intelligent, and fun! My partner and I had a great time there and I’m looking forward to the next one!

This was my third-ish Dark Circus party, and definitely the most fun I’ve had at one. A big part of that is simply knowing more people now. I got to introduce the guy I’m seeing to folks I know, and he had a great time too. He didn’t tie or get tied, but he enjoyed watching, taking pictures, and experiencing the party with me. I did get tied, and it was SO much fun!

If you’ve never been to a Dark Circus party, prepare for a lot happening at once! People are tying and being tied everywhere, usually in costumes that fit the theme. The music is usually fun and often on-theme. There isn’t really a dance floor per se, but I definitely found myself moving around to the music more at this party.

Despite everything going on, I always feel incredibly safe here. The community is wonderful and welcoming. I remember people introducing themselves to me at my very first party, and now I’m fortunate to know quite a few people. The DMs are always roaming around, keeping an eye on things, and there’s a strong culture of consent and looking out for one another. I love knowing I can use my own voice if I ever need help or want something to stop. I’ve even been thinking about experimenting with a blindfold and earplugs someday to heighten my other senses, knowing there are trusted people around keeping an eye out.

I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this as someone’s very first event. The amount of activity can be overwhelming, and you’ll get much more out of it once you’ve met a few people and have some familiarity with the community. You also need to take the Getting Started class first. For a true first event, I’d probably recommend starting with a Merry-Go-Round and then working your way toward a Dark Circus party.

One of my favorite things about these parties is that there’s no alcohol or drugs, which makes a huge difference to the atmosphere and my sense of safety.

I had an amazing time once again. It was a very fun night. The food was super good.