‘Thunder’ expands for 1st non-Las Vegas residency
Aug 13, 2024 at 1:02 PM
Aussie Strippers Conquer the Music City: "Thunder From Down Under" Expands to Nashville
Las Vegas has long been known as "VegasVille," a hub for entertainment and excitement. But now, a new term has emerged - "ThunderVille." This moniker refers to the shiny, muscular performers from "Australia's Thunder From Down Under," who are expanding their residency from the Excalibur in Las Vegas to the historic Woolworth Theatre in Nashville, Tennessee.Bringing the Outback to the Music City: "Thunder From Down Under" Lands in Nashville
Conquering the Music City: "Thunder From Down Under" Expands to Nashville
The "Thunder From Down Under" show, which has been a hit at the Excalibur in Las Vegas since 2002, is now set to take the stage at the Woolworth Theatre in Nashville. The show, co-produced by Adam Steck of SPI Entertainment and his business partner Billy Cross, will run Thursdays through Saturdays, offering a unique blend of Australian flair and high-energy entertainment.The decision to bring "Thunder From Down Under" to Nashville was not a random one. According to Adam Steck, he noticed the city's growing popularity as a haven for bachelorette parties during a trip three years ago. This community has become the "Thunder" show's lifeline, and Steck is confident that the Nashville production will run indefinitely.Outbidding the Competition: "Thunder From Down Under" Secures the Woolworth Theatre
The move to the Woolworth Theatre was not without its challenges. The theater had previously been in negotiations with the "Chippendales" production, which has been running at the Rio in Las Vegas since 2002. However, the theater opted for "Thunder From Down Under" because it was "a deal with terms far superior," according to a lawsuit filed by the "Chippendales" production.The "Chippendales" lawsuit claims that the theater is attempting to recoup costs "necessary in attempting to secure a replacement partner for the production of (Chippendales) Program in Nashville beginning in September of 2024." This legal battle highlights the competitive nature of the entertainment industry and the high stakes involved in securing prime performance venues.Transforming the Woolworth Theatre: "Thunder From Down Under" Brings a New Outback Flair
The "Thunder From Down Under" show is described as "Girls Night Outback," and the veteran producer, Adam Steck, is leaning into the show's Outback image. He sees the Australian cowboys as a unique selling point, setting the "Thunder" production apart from its competitors.The move to the Woolworth Theatre, a 275-seat venue, represents a significant expansion for the "Thunder From Down Under" brand. Steck already has two touring shows and the flagship production at the Excalibur in Las Vegas, and he is optimistic that the Nashville production will be a long-term success.Embracing the Music City: "Thunder From Down Under" Finds a New Home in Nashville
Nashville, often referred to as the "Music City," is a natural fit for the "Thunder From Down Under" show. The city's vibrant entertainment scene and growing popularity as a destination for bachelorette parties make it an ideal location for the Australian-themed production.The move to Nashville also represents a strategic expansion for the "Thunder From Down Under" brand, as it seeks to capitalize on the city's reputation as a hub for live music and entertainment. By establishing a permanent residency at the Woolworth Theatre, the show can reach a new audience and solidify its presence in the Music City.