What do Chippendales dancers have in common with Disney stalwarts Chip & Dale? Their union.
The famed male dancers, known for their striptease act in Las Vegas, are working with Actors’ Equity to unionize in an effort to obtain higher wagers and benefits. Actors’ Equity, in addition to representing actors and stage managers on Broadway, also represents character actors and the parade departments at Disneyland.
The union has asked the Rio hotel and casino, where Chippendales performs, for voluntary recognition, and has also filed with the National Labor Relations Board for an election.
“We love Chippendales and value being a part of this incredible institution,” said the dancers in a statement . “But we also believe our situation here isn’t keeping up with industry standards. In order to continue providing the world-class entertainment that has always been the Chippendales calling card, we need to have a world-class workplace – and that means fair pay, decent benefits, safety and accountability.”