THE OCCUPATIONAL MILIEU OF THE NUDE DANCER

This article is a descriptive study of the occupation of the nude danc er/stripper. Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 57 dance rs. These interviews were augmented by 36 extensive in-depth interview s with nondancers who were also employed at dancing establishments and by observations of interactions within strip clubs. The respondents w ere employed at a variety of dancing establishments, from more traditi onal nude dancing or strip clubs to the newer upscale ''gentlemen's cl ubs.'' This research investigates the physical and cultural space of t he female nude dancer, her performance, her auxiliary roles, and her i nteractions with customers and other workers in strip clubs.