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In February 2024, The UK Pleasure Boys – an all-male strip group – took to the stage at The Devenish Bar in west Belfast. But when mobile phone footage of their raunchy performance leaked online, it went viral, sparking a fierce public debate. The group claimed the women stormed the stage, the venue said the boys encouraged it – and Northern Ireland’s social media feeds lit up. Audience members faced rumours, public shaming, even claims of broken engagements. True or exaggerated, it was the scandal of the year.

Months later in Banbridge, they discovered NI’s strict nudity laws. Under council scrutiny, they kept their kit on – to the crowd’s frustration – while church protestors picketed outside. Now, a year later, they’re back in Belfast, on International Women’s Day 2025.

We follow superfans Leah and Cliona from Derry, who see these shows as a safe space for women and a liberating escape. Behind the scenes, the boys hit the gym, talk female gaze and how they can adjust routines to give the crowd a thrill without breaking the law.

Journalist Niamh Campbell – Northern Ireland’s self-styled 'stripper correspondent' – joins the action, interviewing academics and fans to explore what the controversy reveals about changing attitudes to sexuality.

As women come together to celebrate International Women’s Day in Belfast, will The Pleasure Boys follow the rules as they get ready to give their fans a night to remember?