Chippendales, the famous adult revue at the Rio Hotel & Casino, has recently made headlines by announcing its plans to unionize with Actors’ Equity Association. This move marks the first time an all-male revue in Las Vegas has attempted to unionize, setting a new precedent in the entertainment industry.
The decision to unionize comes after a year of investigation by members of the Chippendales troupe, including cast member Freddy Godinez, who has been with the company for two years. The performers are seeking health benefits, higher wages, and sick leave, among other issues. Many of them have been with the show for several years without any benefits being offered.
One of the main concerns raised by the performers is the lack of health coverage and sick leave, which has been a longstanding issue. Some dancers are forced to pay for their healthcare out of pocket, while others have coverage through employment elsewhere. Additionally, the performers feel that they are underpaid compared to other revues in Las Vegas.
The move to unionize could have far-reaching effects on the entertainment industry in Las Vegas. While currently, only one show, “Menopause the Musical” at Harrah’s, is represented by Equity, the Chippendales’ decision could inspire other shows to follow suit. Production companies such as Cirque du Soleil and SPI Entertainment, which are currently non-union, may face pressure to organize their casts and crews.
Nationally, Equity represents a wide range of professional actors and stage managers, including strip-club employees and Disneyland character performers. Las Vegas, with its vibrant entertainment scene, presents a unique opportunity for performers to seek Equity status and advocate for better working conditions.
The Chippendales’ decision to unionize represents a significant step towards improving the rights and benefits of performers in Las Vegas. By joining forces with Actors’ Equity Association, the cast members hope to bring about positive change in the entertainment industry and set a new standard for working conditions in male revues.
As the entertainment landscape in Las Vegas continues to evolve, the Chippendales’ unionization effort could pave the way for other shows to follow suit and create a more equitable and sustainable environment for performers across the city. The performers’ push for better benefits and wages reflects a growing awareness of the importance of fair treatment and representation in the entertainment industry.
