The Chippendales dancers known for their exciting shows and worldwide fame as trailblazers in male striptease now face a work conflict that has grabbed attention in Las Vegas. After they chose to join the Actors’ Equity Association union in October, the performers hoped to talk things out with their bosses. However, the issue has grown into claims of unfair work practices and attempts to break up the union.
Chippendales Dancers Face Retaliation Ahead of Move to The Linq
The dancers, who have been part of the Rio Hotel & Casino for more than 20 years, plan to move to the Mat Franco Theater at The Linq in January, reported 8 News Now. Before this change, the union submitted a formal complaint to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Union representatives claim that the performers have faced payback, including forced tryouts and job reapplications. The union believes this strategy aims to single out and fire outspoken union supporters.
Brooke Shields, the president of the Actors’ Equity Association, slammed the employer’s behavior. Shields stressed that these performers known for their professionalism and role in building Chippendales’ worldwide reputation, should get fair treatment. She pushed the NLRB to make the employer answer for its actions and asked fans and labor allies to back the dancers during this tough time.
The union also claims that the employer has used intimidating tactics like holding forced meetings to try and stop union support. Reports say that known union supporters have been left off work schedules making the tensions between the dancers and bosses even worse.
Union Rallies Public Support to Back Chippendales Dancers in Labor Rights Battle
Actors’ Equity Association, which speaks for over 51,000 theater professionals across the US, has started a petition to gain public backing. Supporters aim to push the employer to accept the dancers’ union and bring back workers they claim were fired for union activities.
People often call Chippendales “the Broadway of burlesque.” The group is famous for its lively well-planned shows. Besides its Las Vegas home base, the troupe often travels the world cementing its place as a big name in global entertainment.
Despite the accolades, the dancers’ ongoing fight sheds light on bigger issues workers face to secure their right to organize and negotiate fair workplace conditions.
As the labor dispute continues more people support the performers, with many demanding quick action and fairness for these well-known entertainers. People who like and support the dancers can sign the union’s petition to back their fight for fair treatment.