Synonyms

opening night

American

noun

the first performance of a theatrical attraction, taking place in the evening.

The audience was full of celebrities on opening night.

Etymology

Origin of opening night

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Vrabel would make another statement on Thursday’s draft opening night, saying “my previous actions don’t meet the standard that I hold myself to.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

During a month of rehearsals before opening night, Mykkanen made exercising and walking through Central Park part of his ritual to escape from the opera's dark themes.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

This year’s edition includes an opening night party with a DJ set by street artist Shepard Fairey, panel discussions, guided meditation and even a sound bath.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

How about Australia, winners on opening night against Taiwan?

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

Krause has something at home; she’ll give it to Mariela before opening night.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

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