First time at DreamGirls

Ventured out to DreamGirls recently as I heard they can have a solid stage show with their 2 story poles.

Arrived on a Sunday night around 8pm. They scanned my ID, no cover charge, opted for a booth ($40) as I like the closeness and comfort it offers. The club has been described many times before. Tables around the stage with comfy chairs. Two tiers of booths on one side close enough to see what's going on. The stage has two large poles going up 2 stories with a bell at the top that triggers some light effects when pressed. Didn't do a VIP so no idea what's going on there.

It was initially dead inside with no one on stage, a Latina with a customer at the bar and another hanging out with some guys at the tables. Asked the beautiful waitress who mentioned the performers were all in the back or in the VIP and she provided free passes for future visits. Got a few drinks ($9 bourbon which wasn't generously poured) and waited. Shift change?