A 'curtain-raiser' is an introductory performance, event, or presentation that precedes a more significant and often more prominent attraction. It serves to warm up the audience, build anticipation, or set the stage for what is to follow. Typically shorter and less complex than the main event, a curtain-raiser can be a play, a musical performance, a speech, a short film, or any activity designed to engage an audience before the main attraction begins. The term evokes the literal lifting of a theatre curtain to reveal the initial offering of the evening.
Curtain-raiser meaning with examples
- The amateur theatre group put on a lively one-act play as the curtain-raiser for the professional company's production of Hamlet. The lighthearted performance helped relax the audience and created a positive atmosphere. Many people stayed on during the interval to discuss the act before settling in for Shakespeare. It gave a real lift to the evening.
- Before the main concert of the evening, the up-and-coming band performed a high-energy set as the curtain-raiser for the headlining act. The new band had great stage presence. The eager crowd responded positively, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Their short set perfectly primed the audience for the music of the main act.
- The film festival used a documentary short as a curtain-raiser before the premiere of the feature film. The film opened many peoples eyes as to the subject matter and led into a Q&A session. Its informative and engaging content provided context for the feature. The early start gave people extra time to discuss the themes and plot.
- The conference organizers included a keynote speaker as the curtain-raiser to the series of workshops and presentations. The keynote address introduced the core theme for the event. The speech set a tone of inspiration and engagement to encourage participants. The speaker drew in many people, ensuring a packed venue for the event.