Ageism in the Industry: Can You Still Thrive as a Dancer Over 30?

(Strippers, Waitresses and Showgirls Edition)

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Let me answer this real quick: Yes, absolutely—and why the hell not?

“Age is just a number” might sound a little cliché, but it’s true. Our clients come from all walks of life, with tastes as varied as their backgrounds. Let’s be crystal clear on this one: being over 30 or 40 doesn’t mean you’re “old.” Not even close. Sure, outdated patriarchal standards might try to convince you otherwise, but trust me, they’re wrong. In fact, your 30s (and beyond) might just be your most powerful era.

Why? Because by now, you know yourself. You’ve got life experience, emotional intelligence, and a sharp sense of how to work a room and that’s power. Many clients are drawn to confidence, conversation, and charisma, and that’s something that is difficult to fake. After all, this job is all about human connection. Sure, looks can catch attention an get you hired, but being engaging, witty, and emotionally attuned? That’s what keeps clients coming back—and that skillset sharpens with age.

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Older Dancers? More Like Industry Icons.

When I was a 20-year-old baby stripper, the dancers in their 30s, 40s, and beyond weren’t just co-workers—they were icons to me. They moved with confidence, navigated clients like absolute pros, and gave me advices I still live by. They taught me how to read a room, handle pushy customers, upsell, and hold my boundaries.

And let’s talk about the dancers over 50 who absolutely own the floor. These women aren’t just working, they’re thriving and they sure know what they are doing. I used to see these women as ethereal goddesses, so graceful and charismatic that I felt unworthy to even be in their presence ahahah! It was both humbling and inspiring. They keep clients because they know the game inside out. Let's be honest here, they’re not just welcome in the industry—they are necessary. Who else is going to mentor the next generation?

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Thinking of Starting After 30? Hell Yes.

While many dancers enter the industry in their early twenties and keep it going in their thirties, here’s the truth: you can start at any age. No prior experience? No problem. Your 30s (and beyond) might actually be the perfect time to begin. You’ve got a stronger sense of self, sharper instincts, and the ability to walk into a room with your head held high and, let’s be honest, way fewer fucks to give!

You’ve likely done the work of figuring out your boundaries, your style, and your values. That kind of inner stability is a major asset in an industry where confidence and clear decision-making are key. You may find that you’re less influenced by external pressure, more focused on your goals, and better equipped to choose the clients and bookings that align with what you want. Plus, your communication skills are more refined—you know how to talk to people, defuse tension, and turn a maybe into a yes, and that’s not just charm—that’s life experience.

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Age Is an Asset

To anyone wondering if they’re “too old” to dance: you are not. Your confidence, presence, and people skills are what truly matter in this industry, not a number. If you’re thinking about entering or continuing in this industry past 30, you can, and know that you bring valuable insight into the industry.

So wear those heels (or don’t), grab that pole (or that tray), and walk into that room like you own it, because you do.

Age isn’t a limitation, it's an asset.