amateur night

American  

noun

1. an entertainment featuring amateur performers, often in competition for prizes.

2. Informal. an example of or situation marked by flagrant ineptitude.

   Critics say it's been amateur night at the embassy since the new ambassador took over.

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Etymology

Origin of amateur night

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Amateur night, says the voice, and some ladies and gentlemen will seek to entertain us with a few specialties for our amusement.

From A Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago by Hecht, Ben

Amateur night at Creary's Eighth Avenue Theatre is cut by the same pattern as amateur nights elsewhere.

From Rolling Stones by Henry, O.