one-man show

Idioms  

1. Also, one-man band. A person who does or manages just about everything, as in This department is a one-man show—the chairman runs it all, or John conducts the interviews, writes the articles, solicits ads, deals with the printer—he's a one-man band. This idiom alludes to the actor or artist responsible for the entire performance or exhibit, or the musician who plays every instrument in the group. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

And he reveals that, when Joey’s acting career failed to take off, he planned a one-man show for himself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

With Khalil Mack on injured reserve, the Chargers were boasting a one-man show on the edge — Tuli Tuipulotu leading the team in pressures with 27.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 10, 2025

It’s a one-man show that I can say without hyperbole is the best work he ever did.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2025

The actor went on to star in The Woman In Black and Lunch With Marlene, and his one-man show Macready! played in 65 countries.

From BBC • Jul. 10, 2025

Someday Ml have a poetry reading and a one-man show at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe on the Lower East Side.

From "Bronx Masquerade" by Nikki Grimes