Behind The Pole: Dancers Speak Out On Alleged Exploitation At Magic City | TSR Investigates

Magic City is known for its dancers, wings, and celebrity clientele. But the girls who work there say it should also be known for something else: its alleged exploitation of dancers. Some say they were forced to pay promoters, share their tips with non-tipped staff, and cover “house fees” up to $300 a night. This, while allegedly making less than $5 per hour. Now, dancers are speaking anonymously, opening up about allegedly being pressured to give their money to a man named “Baller.” But that isn’t all. Magicy City is clapping back at the dancers’ claims. What’s really going on? And how are dancers legally supposed to be paid?

The Shade Room’s host Justin Carter digs into the allegations and delivers some answers on ‘TSR Investigates.’

More On The Alleged Exploitation Of Magic City Dancers

Courtney Hale, a former dancer at Magic City, informed Carter about a man named “Baller.” In a lawsuit she filed earlier this year, Hale alleges that Baller “took a portion of the tips” she earned “during 2 or 3 of the shifts she worked each week.” Additionally, Hale asserted that Magic City was “aware of/approved of Baller’s confiscating of the tips.”

“At all times during the Relevant Time Period, Magic City contends it compensated Hale at an hourly rate of $2.13 per hour plus tips,” her lawsuit reads. “…Plaintiff was required to pay and did pay other ‘kickbacks’ as well, such as a house fee of $100-$300 per night, DJ fees of $20-$100 per night, and security fees of $50-$100 per night.”

Per Hale, when she notified Magic City of the infractions, she allegedly was “mistreated” in return. Furthermore, Hale alleged that she was even charged $300 in house fees while other dancers allegedly paid $150 or less. This, all while Baller charged her and fellow dancers anywhere around $800 a night each.

What Does The Club Say In Response?

According to Hale, her situation escalated with her being sexually harassed by her female manager. While speaking with Carter, she noted that she was “uncomfortable” going to work, but the manager controlled her money and ability to work. So what happened when Hale reported it all? Well, she was reportedly let go from Magic City and labeled a whistleblower.

Scroll above to watch as Courtney Hale’s lawyer breaks down the alleged actions of Magic City and similar clubs. Additionally, Carter speaks with an anonymous dancer who shares her alleged experience with “Baller.” Furthermore, Carter goes over similar lawsuits and also speaks to the attorney representing Magic City.

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