Stripping in the New Millennium: Thinking about Trends in Exotic Dance and Dancers’ Lives

Abstract

With the increasing presence of sex and sexuality in American popular culture, the stripping industry is undoubtedly undergoing important subcultural and organizational transition. What are the implications of these changes for the individuals involved? The current paper reviews much of the literature on exotic dance to consider the potential transformations in the organization of the sex industry and how these changes may impact the lives of those involved. Specifically, I note some key differences in the literature that suggest how exotic dance has shifted. I then pose some questions for empirical inquiry. I argue that transformations in the exotic industry are creating new opportunities and challenges for women, and may be particularly deleterious for poor and minority women. I call for sociologists to investigate the consequences of organizational transferal in sexual labor, reevaluate the dynamics of agency and exploitation, and consider the potential differential impact of these trends on poor women and women of color.

Students Who Strip: The Benefits of Alternate Identities for Managing Stigma

“…There are no systematic data on the qualities of strippers over time; however, some research suggests that strippers are generally more educated today than they were in the past (Bradley 2008; Reid, Epstein, and Benson 1995; Sweet and Tewksbury 2000b). This may suggest an increase in transient strippers who have other opportunities and view stripping as a more temporary endeavor that fits with their current situation or future ambitions.…”

Exotic Dance Research: A Review of the Literature from 1970 to 2008

“…The annual revenues from this form of entertainment can be staggering. According to Bradley (2008), while some small clubs are independently owned, others are multimillion dollar enterprises (e.g., Larry Flint's Hustler Clubs or Rick's Cabarets). Culturally, strip clubs are still subjects of contested community debates over morality (Perez 2009;Blakley 2009) but they are also iconographic, with dozens of Hollywood films featuring exotic dancers and clubs.…”

A comparative analysis of infractions in Texas alcohol establishments and adult entertainment clubs

“…In Texas alone, there was a 20% increase in the number of such clubs between 2005 and 2008. These clubs range from small establishments in high crime neighborhoods to large businesses catering to an upper-class clientele (Bradley, 2008).…”