ABSTRACT
Male strippers, in general, and men who strip for men, in particular, are largely ignored or are treated as inconsequential entertainment. This chapter focuses on power dynamics in the all-male strip club, is based upon research completed for a book about the world of men who strip for men, and attempts to address some of the gaps in the literature. Strip clubs hold an ambiguous position even in the minds of many people who consider themselves liberal. Power appears to be an interesting element in gay strip clubs because it is inextricably entwined with the male gender role. In addition to providing limited access to their bodies and the attention desired by some customers, strippers work at making their customers feel special, even desirable. The male stripper who works for men may sway his hips and jiggle his flesh, but he also must understand and exercise the subtleties of control.
