How to become a male stripper at a gay bar

While sipping my dirty martini I started to wonder how do these sexy men become male strippers at a gay bar.

     Watching and tipping male strippers at a gay bar is one of my favorite forms of entertainment. I was curious how these gentlemen became male entertainers so I did a little research. It seems most start out wanting to make a little cash on the weekends. After being encouraged by a friend or an acquaintance, they step out on a stage or bar in revealing clothing and may strip to nude. Let's discover the reasons why and how.

What is a male stripper?

Wikipedia describes a striptease as “...an erotic or exotic dance in which the performer gradually undresses, either partly or completely, in a seductive and sexually suggestive manner.” A striptease can be performed by men or women. Men who perform a striptease are referred to as male strippers.

     Male strippers are a type of entertainer included in the exotic male dancer entertainment industry. When considering gay bars and clubs you can also include go-go boys, pole dancers, male reviews and nude male dancers. A male stripper is often a combination of these since many gay bars have stripper poles, and some are allowed to strip to full nudity.

Do all male strippers have muscular bodies?

In the past, the more successful male strippers at gay clubs had muscular arms, chests, thighs and abs. And if they had been 'blessed' with an above average sized penis and what is commonly referred to as a bubble butt, they were obviously popular as well. A male stripper with this body type is still desirable but in the gay world there are also other body types that reflect a 'different-strokes-for-different-folks' attitude.

The entertainers that perform at gay clubs include several subcultures that have fans of their own. This would include 'twinks' or young slim dancers and 'bears' who are heavier and harrier. The leather subculture features dancers with varying body types dressed of course in leather costumes. 'Daddy' type male dancers are usually older dancers that have some variation of what is known as a dad bod. With others it is more a look or state of mind that gives them that designation. My personal opinion is that if you can find an audience who will follow you and tip you, then anyone can be a male stripper.

What does a male stripper wear?

The number one piece of clothing in the male stripper's duffle bag would be underwear. This could include briefs, boxer briefs, thongs, g-strings, and jockstraps. Boxers are usually worn only as part of a costume that is removed during a seductive dance. Currently the most common type of underwear worn by male strippers in gay clubs is boxer briefs.

Thongs are more often found in the male review shows that cater mainly to women but gay men love them all the same. Jockstraps and ass-less underwear have gained in popularity over the past few years.

All male bodies are different. All underwear made for men fits differently on each body. Find underwear that fits you well. Baggy is never in. If you have a natural full bulge in front, then buy underwear that emphasizes this. There are many types of underwear that have pouches in front designed specifically for this purpose.

Colors, patterns and fabrics in underwear are also important. The underwear should fit around the head of your penis so as to provide a VPL (Visible Penis Line). Solid colors and clingy fabrics will help with this. If you are not so endowed, patterns and less clingy fabrics will help to camouflage and create more of a mystery.

Your underwear should fit on your ass so as to display the two globes at their best. If you have a flatter butt, find underwear that has a seam that goes down the crack. This helps to create a separation of the two globes and will help to give the illusion of a rounder and fuller behind.

Costumes play an important role in creating a fantasy for the customers and fans. The fantasies are expressed with costumes, props, music and lighting. Some of the more popular classic costume themes include cowboy, fireman, policeman, military, leather, superheroes, gladiator, tuxedo, sports, nerd, office professional, doctor and others.

I am affiliate with Andrew Christian underwear and Ebay.  I have purchased men's underwear in both locations online to use in photo shoots and to use in creating male stripper costumes.  I chose to become an affiliate with each of them because I have found them to be good sources of men's underwear for use in the exotic male dancer industry.

Do you need to be a good dancer to be a male stripper?

It was a surprise to me to find out that the majority of male strippers do not know how to dance. Well, at least when they first start out. Of course, those who do, will have an advantage over others and could be favored when it comes to being booked at clubs.

It is important to always be learning and growing as an entertainer. This could include taking dancing lessons, watching other male strippers and copying their dance moves, and watching YouTube videos of male strippers.

Practice. Practice. Practice. Listen to various types of popular music and practice dancing at home. If possible, stand in front of a mirror and critique yourself. Ask a friend to watch you and give you pointers. Be sure and pick someone that can be constructive and not someone who will say only what they think you want to hear.

How do you get started as a male stripper?

Evaluate your 'look'. A neat and clean appearance is a must. No fan or customer wants to get very close to someone they think looks unclean or may smell bad. Evaluate yourself on the following and make any adjustments you feel are needed.

Hair:

Whether you have long hair or short hair, make sure it is clean and groomed. Schedule an appointment with a hairdresser if needed. Depending on where you perform, brightly colored hair and unconventional hair styles may work for you, or work against you. Shaved and bald heads are the same. If you have no choice, own it!

Teeth:

Your teeth should be clean, white as possible, and in good shape. Brush them regularly and avoid bad breath. Schedule a dentist visit if work is needed.

Fitness:

Your fitness level will depend on the target audience you are hoping to reach. Every male stripper will benefit from maintaining a fitness level that keeps them in good health.

Remember you will be dancing, standing, and moving for several hours during each session.

If you do not feel you need to build your body for appearance , it is still beneficial to stay in good shape. This will help you to perform your job well. Adjust your diet and exercise accordingly.

Personality:

You need to be a 'people person'. It is important to be outgoing, friendly, confident and grateful.

Grateful:

The customers and fans are not obligated to tip you. They'll first be attracted by yourphysical appearance. But after that, they will be attracted to you based on your attitude and friendliness. If you express arrogance or superiority, except for a few who are into that, your fan base will dwindle. A little positive and friendly attention toward customers and fans goes a long way. Remember to say thank you when the opportunity arises.

Hygiene:

Personal hygiene is of the utmost importance. Your body needs to be clean and smell nice.  Invest in a cologne that is a best-seller and use it. If you sweat a lot during your sessions, be prepared to clean your body and hair between sessions. Bring extra underwear to change as needed.

What age should you be to be a male stripper at a gay club?

The age of most exotic male dancers who perform in gay clubs is in the range of 18-40. It is more difficult in some locations for the 18-20 year olds to dance due to laws requiring performers to be 21 or older. And there are some dancers who can dance past the age of 40 because they have developed a following and remained popular. I have not met many male strippers who are in their 50s or beyond but they do exist.

Do you have to be gay to dance at a gay club?

No. There are many straight male dancers who perform at gay clubs. My only advice for straight male dancers who desire to work at a gay club, is learn to be comfortable around gay men.

How do you get booked at a gay club?

Making a contact that is already involved in the business should be your first step. Visit a club that regularly features male strippers. In a gay club a possible contact would include club owners, managers, show directors, bartenders, DJ's, drag queens, male strippers and other entertainers. Ask questions and find out who you need to speak to about becoming a stripper at the bar or club.

To find locations in North America where male dancers are regularly featured, check out the Males In Motion Club Listings at http://www.malesinmotion.com

A great place to start is to participate in amateur and contest nights. These are designed specifically to find new male stripper entertainers. Some contests will have cash prizes but dance for free if necessary. If you have prepared, you will entertain the customers and help them to have a good time. When this happens, expect a call back from the club.

Final Thoughts

The bottom line to being successful as a male stripper is butts in the seats with drinks in their hands. Bars and clubs are businesses and exist to make money. If you are able to create a following and bring patrons to the club and then those patrons pay door cover charges and buy drinks. If you are able to bring customers through their door the club will continue to book you.