minstrel show
noun
a once popular type of stage show featuring comic dialogue, song, and dance in highly conventionalized patterns, performed by a troupe of actors traditionally comprising two end men, a chorus in blackface, and an interlocutor. Developed in the U.S. in the 19th century, this entertainment portrayed negative racial stereotypes and declined in popularity in the 20th century.
Nearby words
minotaur, minoxidil, minsk, minster, minstrel, minstrel show, minstrelsy, mint, mint bush, mint condition, in, mint family
Origin of minstrel show
An Americanism dating back to 1865–70
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
British Dictionary definitions for minstrel show
minstrel show
noun
a theatrical entertainment consisting of songs, dances, comic turns, etc, performed by a troupe of actors wearing black face make-up
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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