View synonyms for command performance

command performance

noun

a performance of a play, opera, ballet, or the like, given at the request of a sovereign or head of state.

command performance

noun

a performance of a play, opera, etc, at the request of a ruler or of royalty

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Word History and Origins

Origin of command performance¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

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Idioms and Phrases

An occasion that one is obliged to attend, as in My boss's invitations to dinner are always a command performance . This term originally (late 1800s) denoted a theatrical or musical performance presented at the behest of a sovereign or head of state. By the 1930s it was also used figuratively for any more or less obligatory occasion or performance.

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Example Sentences

Not long ago, it will be remembered, she played Lady Teazle at a command performance of Sheridan's masterpiece.

From Project Gutenberg

Whatever might be said about Arnold's political ethics, few have criticized his command performance with small forces.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

world premiere

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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

command paper command post

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