Synonyms of curtain-raiser

curtain-raiser

noun

ˈkər-tᵊn-ˌrā-zər 

as in prelude

a performance, activity, or event that precedes and sets the stage for the main event

the opening of the performing arts center proved to be a curtain-raiser for the rebirth of the city's downtown

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prelude
• preliminary
• overture
• prologue
• warm-up
• preamble
• lead-in
• countdown
• kickoff
• start
• run-up

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of curtain-raiser

After epic curtain-raisers in 1970 and 1986, this year’s inaugural match will feature a resurgent Mexico against a youthful South Africa team. — Jonathan Thompson, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026

The second season served as a curtain-raiser for Kaitlyn Dever and her character, Abby. — Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2026

Only New Zealand comes in with a lower world ranking, and Les Grenadiers’ group features matchups with 2022 semifinalist Morocco and legendary Brazil (plus Scotland, whom Haiti will face in Foxboro’s World Cup curtain-raiser on June 13). — Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 2 June 2026

Here’s a curtain-raiser on SXSW Music 2026, which runs from March 12-16 — with all of the different sub-festivals running concurrently, for the first time in the Austin gathering’s four-decade history. — Chris Willman, Variety, 12 Mar. 2026