Portland, Oregon, a city often celebrated for its distinct character, holds a lesser-known yet prominent title: the strip club capital of the United States. With an unparalleled concentration of venues, this vibrant scene has long been a local hallmark, but a new documentary is now casting an international spotlight on its intricate dynamics, offering viewers an unprecedented look beyond common perceptions.
Titled “Cheers! Portland, the Strip Club Capital of America,” the film delves into the lives of the dancers, managers, and patrons who shape this unique industry. The documentary’s name itself, “Cheers!”, emerged as a recurring sentiment during interviews, reflecting a surprising sense of community and familiarity that many individuals find within these establishments, reminiscent of the popular television show where “everybody knows your name.”
The creation of “Cheers!” was a four-year labor of love spearheaded by Portlander Megan Ashley Allen, the film’s director. Her journey into this project began organically, through a friend bartending at a strip club who connected her with a customer passionate about documenting Portland’s scene. This serendipitous start led Allen to uncover profound stories and meet dancers who had dedicated 10 to 15 years to their careers, challenging her preconceived notions and deepening her understanding of this complex world.
Among the compelling voices featured in the documentary is Phoenix, a dancer who generously shares insights into her profession. Far from a casual pursuit, Phoenix emphasizes the rigorous demands of her work, which includes regular gym visits, flexibility and aerial classes, and essential body maintenance through massage therapy and chiropractic care. Her commitment highlights the often-unseen physical artistry and dedication involved in the craft.
The film actively confronts prevalent societal stereotypes surrounding strip clubs and their participants. Director Allen discovered that contrary to the belief that attendees are solely “perverts” or “gross,” Portland’s venues attract a remarkably diverse clientele. “Anyone and everyone is going to the strip clubs,” she asserts, showcasing a broader social acceptance and integration of these establishments into the city’s fabric.
A significant revelation during the documentary’s production was the strong relational aspect fostered within these clubs. Allen observed that many regulars frequented the establishments not just for entertainment but to cultivate genuine connections. This element of community and social interaction often goes unnoticed, providing a deeper layer to the narrative of Portland’s distinct nightlife and the human bonds formed within it.
Phoenix’s personal story further amplifies the humanizing message of the documentary. She openly discusses living with a neurological disease that caused partial paralysis on her right side, revealing how dancing has paradoxically become a crucial part of her physical therapy, enabling her to regain use of both sides of her body. This extraordinary resilience underscores the personal significance her career holds beyond mere performance.
Ultimately, “Cheers! Portland” aims to dismantle misconceptions and present dancers as multidimensional individuals. “We want people to see that we’re like everybody else,” Phoenix eloquently states, emphasizing their mundane daily lives—grocery shopping, laundry, paying bills, and caring for families. The film challenges viewers to move beyond objectification, inviting them to appreciate the artistic expression and individual choice inherent in their path, validating their profession as a legitimate career within the entertainment industry.
The documentary serves as a powerful testament to the resilience, artistry, and often misunderstood humanity within Portland’s unique strip club culture. By sharing these intimate narratives, “Cheers! Portland” invites a re-evaluation of societal norms and celebrates the diverse lives that contribute to the city’s distinctive identity and thriving nightlife scene.
