Beyond Sexuality: How House of Temptaxxions Educates and Entertains

Utah’s conservative climate means it is rarely associated with nightlife. Burlesque, drag, fetish, cabaret and erotica are considered radical, even rebellious, in our red state. But to Jax Hernandez, also known as Jax Creative and mother of the House of Temptaxxions, pushing these strict boundaries is how you get people to listen, change and hopefully, have some fun.

“We are the creators of the atmosphere, of the story.”

Founded five years ago by Hernandez’s now-spouse, Mr. Creative, House of Temptaxxions was originally imagined as a Magic Mike-style traveling show. Hernandez was initially hired as an aerialist, but soon helped lead the company through one of the most challenging times in recent history: the COVID-19 pandemic. The global devastation caused by the pandemic forced Temptaxxions to restructure, and they evolved into a community-centered gothic cabaret that blends a plethora of dance styles and erotic shows. Hernandez explains how the pandemic affected their community: “We saw so many of our friends and family lose opportunities because they couldn’t perform. But there is something magical about a group setting around dance. Our whole community was devastated and depressed, angry and frustrated, and we understood that we needed to give them a location that they could come to.”

Temptaxxions has become not only a home for countercultural and LGBTQ+ artists in the SLC area, but also an educational resource for Utahns who misunderstand what cabaret is. “It’s hard to explain to some individuals who have been scandalized by things like burlesque. They don’t think that it is safe, and a lot of people who don’t have the education to understand what these things are will push them away before giving them a chance,” Hernandez says. “And even though this is nightlife, it is still professional. It is not a wild party. We are the creators of the atmosphere, of the story.”

“So many people feel guilt and shame about being different, when being different is what makes us beautiful.”

Though Utah is undeniably entrenched in conservatism and religious culture, Hernandez is seeing a shift. Education through performances, friends and social media has significantly impacted how people view nightlife — and that change is becoming more positive. “It’s unbelievably important that we’re [in Utah]. It’s what the community needs,” Hernandez says. “Those who may be stuck in a situation that has no way out, who have only been taught a certain way of living, come to our nights, and it may be the thing to help them come out of the closet. So many people feel guilt and shame about being different, when being different is what makes us beautiful.” Temptaxxions works to make Utah an inclusive state, and they have no plans to give up on the people here.

It’s clear that Temptaxxions, though often sensual, playful and kinky, ultimately transcends sex. How exactly? Like any community, the fetish world is built on a connection between like-minded people who share values and interests. “Say that you all like baseball, and you could talk about baseball all day. You could talk about how much you love it, who did what, who hit base, who didn’t, but at the end of the day, you all get ice cream together, and maybe you don’t talk about baseball anymore,” Hernandez says. Consent and respect are central to the community and performances. These principles are the foundation for people to feel safe enough to appreciate the work onstage without judgment. The goal is sensuality, artistry and expression — not shock value. The shows highlight creativity and storytelling; erotic themes are just a lens.

“There is something magical about a group setting around dance.”

Hernandez reiterates the importance of the community showing up for performers, especially as Utah’s economic and political conditions hit LGBTQ+ communities with job losses, financial strain and shrinking nightlife budgets. Many shows across the industry are being cancelled, leaving artists with fewer opportunities to earn income. In response, Temptaxxions is restructuring, this time to introduce more performers to the company, expand creative collaboration and generate greater interest in their events. Hernandez hopes to produce shows that strengthen the local queer arts scene.

Keep up with House of Temptaxxions’ 2026 event schedule on Instagram at @_temptaxxions_ and Hernandez’s personal artistry at @mother_of_temptaxxions.

Read about more local performing arts here:
Salt City Slam: A Space for Anyone
Opera for Everyone: Park City Opera and the Value of Community