As a bartender and trainer at a national restaurant chain, Rebecca Brown (29) earned a couple thousand dollars in a really good week.
As a bartender and trainer at a national restaurant chain, Rebecca Brown (29) earned a couple thousand dollars in a really good week.
Now, as a dancer at Chicago's Pink Monkey gentleman's club, she makes almost that much in one good night.
The tough job market is prompting a growing number of women across the US to dance in strip clubs, appear in adult movies or pose for magazines like Hustler.
Employers across the adult entertainment industry say they're seeing an influx of applications from women who, like Brown, are attracted by the promise of flexible schedules and fast cash. Many have college degrees and held white-collar jobs until the economy soured.
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In this economy, "desperate measures are becoming far more acceptable," said Jonath-an Alpert, a psychotherapist.
The transition to the nightclub scene isn't always a smooth one from learning to dance in five-inch heels to dealing with the jeers. Some performers said they were initially so nervous that only alcohol could calm their nerves. "It is like giving a speech, but instead of imagining everyone naked, you're the one who's naked," said Brown.
No going back
Makers of adult films cautioned that women shouldn't rush into the decision to make adult movies without considering the effect on their lives.
Steven Hirsch, co-chairman of adult film giant Vivid Entertainment Group, said, "Once you make an adult film, it never goes away."
However, the women say dancing at a strip club might not have been their first career choice, but they entered the business with their eyes wide open. The job gives them more control and flexibility than sitting in a cubicle, and "it's easy, it's fun," said Brown.
For some, dancing is temporary, a way to pay for colle- ge, loans or other bills. Others say they've found their niche.
And Brown, has a ready answer for critics. "I have job security."u00a0
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