The Chippendales are a world-famous male striptease dance troupe best known for their choreographed dance routines and performances that typically involve costume changes and seductive maneuvers. Founded in Los Angeles in 1979, they quickly became a cultural phenomenon and a mainstay for bachelorette parties and ladies’ nights out. But four decades later, are the Chippendales still around and as popular as ever?
Brief History of the Chippendales
The Chippendales were founded in 1979 by Steve Banerjee, an Indian immigrant living in Los Angeles. Banerjee transformed a failing nightclub into a hotspot by implementing the concept of male exotic dancers performing for a female audience. He recruited professional choreographer Nick De Noia to help train the dancers and choreograph their routines. De Noia would come to be known by his stage name, Nick de Noia.
The troupe got their name from Chippendales, a furniture store known for its elegant mahogany furniture style. The reference aimed to evoke classiness and luxury. In April 1979, the first ever Chippendales show premiered at the club and quickly became a massive success. Women lined up around the block for what was previously unheard of at the time – a male striptease show catered exclusively to female audience members.
Throughout the 1980s, the Chippendales exploded in popularity, touring across the US and world. Their distinctive costume of a bow tie collar, cuffs, and a bare chest would become iconic. They even spawned a Saturday morning cartoon show called Chippendales Rescue Rangers.
However, behind the scenes, multiple scandals and criminal activity plagued the troupe. In 1987, Banerjee hired a hitman to murder De Noia out of fear of losing control of the business. Banerjee would later confess to the crime and commit suicide in prison in 1994. Despite the tragedy, the Chippendales legacy continued on.
Where to See the Chippendales Perform
Today, the top place to see the Chippendales perform is at their Las Vegas show located inside the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino. Their Las Vegas act premiered in April 2013 and still runs nightly.
The Chippendales Las Vegas show transforms the casino’s Chippendales Theater into an immersive, intimate experience for their female fans. The dancers perform multiple high-energy dance numbers interspersed with one-on-one interactions with the audience. Portions of the show feature the men dressed in their signature collars and cuffs while other segments have them wearing creatively designed costumes.
Ticket Information
Chippendales Las Vegas tickets can be purchased on their official website or upon arrival at the Rio box office. Ticket prices start at $64.99 plus taxes/fees for general admission seating. Front row VIP seats are also available for those looking for the most interactive experience. Guests must be 18 or older to attend.
The show runs nightly at 9:30PM with an additional performance at 8PM on Saturdays. Run time is approximately 75 minutes.
Chippendales World Tour
In addition to their Las Vegas residency, the Chippendales also continue to tour around the world. Their 2023 world tour stops include:
North America
New York | January 1-7 |
Atlantic City | February 10-14 |
Miami | March 15-19 |
New Orleans | May 20-25 |
Europe
London | April 1-7 |
Paris | June 15-20 |
Barcelona | August 1-7 |
Australia
Sydney | September 15-22 |
Melbourne | October 20-27 |
The touring shows provide women outside of Las Vegas the chance to experience the Chippendales live. Tour stops are typically scheduled in casinos and theaters able to accommodate the show’s interactive style. As with the Las Vegas show, adult language, partial nudity, and audience participation are utilized.
Merchandise and Media
Aside from live events, fans can enjoy the Chippendales through official merchandise and media content.
Merchandise
The Chippendales offer an online store with various apparel and accessories. Products include:
– T-shirts and tank tops
– Hoodies and jackets
– Hats
– Mugs
– Calendars
– Posters
Items feature the signature Chippendales collar/cuffs logo and creative designs. Prices range from $25 – $60 for most products.
Books
Several books have been published detailing the behind-the-scenes story of the Chippendales. Two examples are:
– “Deadly Dance: The Chippendales Murders” by K. Scott Teeters
– “I Was a Chippendales Dancer: Behind the Bowtie and Cuffs” by Lance O’Leary
The books provide a fascinating glimpse into how the iconic troupe was formed and some of the scandals encountered along the way.
Television
The Chippendales brand has expanded into various television shows over the years.
– In 1990, a TV movie called “The Chippendales Murder” premiered on NBC.
– In 2000, a reality competition called “The Amazing Race: The Quest” aired on VH1 and AmazingRace.com. It featured Chippendales dancers competing in challenges around the world.
– Most recently, E! aired a docuseries in 2021 called “Secrets of the Chippendales Murders.” It examines the murder plots and suspicious deaths associated with the Chippendales’ founders.
Why Their Appeal Endures
Looking at their busy performance schedule and continued media presence, it’s clear the Chippendales remain popular even after 40+ years. What explains their lasting cultural impact and appeal?
Female Empowerment
The concept of women freely enjoying a male striptease act was quite taboo when the Chippendales first began performing in the 1970s. But the troupe helped pioneer the idea that women could openly appreciate male sexuality and attraction just as men did with female dancers. While some view striptease as exploitation no matter the gender, many fans feel the Chippendales symbolize female empowerment and equality between the sexes.
Consistency
While individual dancers have come and gone, the classic Chippendales look and choreography remains recognizable. The bow ties, cuffs, and collars are just as iconic as ever. Fans know they can rely on the troupe to deliver their signature steamy-yet-classy aesthetic. This consistency is especially welcomed in Las Vegas where so many acts are constantly changing.
Ultimate Girls’ Night Out
The Chippendales deliver everything expected from a perfect bachelorette party or wild night out. The show allows women to party and go crazy admiring gorgeous men in a judgment-free environment. Even forty years later, ladies are still flocking to their shows to bond and let loose.
Talented Performers
While known for their looks, Chippendales cast only professionally trained dancers who must audition and continually rehearse. Singing and acting skills are also required for their theatrical shows. The men’s chiselled physiques and sex appeal may be a big draw, but audiences remain impressed by their sheer talent.
Conclusion
The iconic Chippendales continue to thrive based on their well-earned reputation for providing a sexy, high-energy male revue that celebrates female patrons. While the concept is no longer as shocking as it was in the 70s, their sold-out shows prove women still adore ogling the men’s dance routines and sculpted bodies. Off-stage drama and tragedies have occurred, but ultimately the Chippendales’ legacy remains one of pushing boundaries, upholding excellence in dance, and bringing joy to decades of screaming fans.