A male stripper in San Francisco |
|
| Occupation | |
|---|---|
| Names | stripper, exotic dancer, erotic dancer, dancer, macho dancer |
| Activity sectors | strip clubs, exhibitions, festivals, competitions |
| Description | |
| Competencies | striptease, cage dancing, lap dancing |
| Education required | none |
Until the 1970s, strippers in Western cultures were almost invariably female, performing to male audiences. Since then, male strippers, performing to female audiences, have also become common. Male and female strippers also perform for gay and lesbian audiences respectively, as well as for both sexes in pansexual contexts. Before the 1970s dancers of both sexes appeared largely in underground clubs or as part of a theatre experience, but the practice eventually became common enough on its own. Male strippers have become a popular option to have at a bachelorette party.
The modern male stripper show usually involves full nudity, although sometimes they may retain underwear throughout the show, or only remove all clothing for a brief time. Performances are usually fully choreographed, involve dance routines and a costume of some sort.[1][2] A male stripper will likely perform at club, bar, workplace or private home with private advanced bookings or ladies nights being prevalent over strip clubs which is the norm for female strippers.[3] This is different from the chippendales scene that emerged to prominence in the 1980s with todays norm being one sole performer, or a series of individual performers rather than a group of strippers.[4]
The record-holder for Guinness World Records "oldest male stripper" is Bernie Barker, who was 63 at the age of his induction.[5]