show-bill

A colorful show-bill is posted on the wall of the theater.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A printed advertisement for a theatrical performance: "show-bill" refers to a poster, flyer, or bill that announces an upcoming play, concert, or other stage entertainment. It typically includes details such as the title, performers, date, and venue.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The theatre manager distributed show-bills across the town to promote the new opera. (A printed advertisement for the opera performance.)
  • I found an old show-bill from the 1920s in the library archives. (A historical advertisement for a past show.)

Advanced Usage

• "show-bill" as a historical document: Often collected by enthusiasts, show-bills provide valuable insight into past entertainment trends and cultural history.
  • The museum's collection of show-bills documents the evolution of musical theatre in the 19th century. (These advertisements serve as historical records.)

Variants and Related Words

• Showbill (n): a common alternative spelling without the hyphen.
  • The showbill featured a colourful illustration of the lead actor. (The poster for the performance.)
• Bill (n): a general term for a poster or notice; can be used alone to mean a show-bill.
  • The bill outside the theatre listed the evening's programme. (The poster or notice.)

Synonyms

• Poster: a large printed picture or notice for public display.
• Playbill: a programme or advertisement for a theatrical performance (often synonymous with show-bill, though "playbill" is more specific to plays).
• Flyer: a small handbill or leaflet used for advertising.

Related Idioms

• "Top of the bill": the most important or featured act in a show.
  • The famous soprano was top of the bill for the charity concert. (She was the main attraction advertised on the show-bill.)