Tender: Sex, Power, and Vulnerability in New Play

Playwright Dave Harris's new work, "Tender," offers a provocative look at male strippers at the failing Dancing Bears Club. Harris, who was inspired by observing "crisis personalities" during LA wildfires, has explored themes of sex and masculinity.

"Tender" unpacks how patriarchy can constrain men and examines the struggles many have with articulating their own pleasure. The play challenges rigid ideas about sex and power, especially through the character of B, the club owner's daughter.

Rehearsals involved extensive research, including interviews with male strippers and sex workers, as well as physical training like pole classes. The cast also attended "Magic Mike Live" for further insight into the performance world.

The production emphasizes audience engagement, providing paddles for interactive scenes to ensure comfort and break down the separation between audience, actor, and character. This interactive element aims to create a more immersive and vulnerable theatrical experience.