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up vote 1 down vote favorite

The question says it all.

Together with a colleague we were looking for this. We both had the feeling that there's another way to say it.

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There might be, but opening act is universally understood. So another way to say it might not be clear to all. – JoseK Nov 18 '11 at 10:58
The late-nineteenth-century theatre had "curtain raisers", but I don't think that would do here. – Colin Fine Nov 18 '11 at 12:03
I am voting to close because this question does not seem constructive. It's just soliciting a list of opinions. – Matt Эллен Nov 18 '11 at 14:57

closed as not constructive by Matt Эллен, Marthaª, simchona♦, Mitch, kiamlaluno Dec 13 '11 at 18:20

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3 Answers

up vote 7 down vote accepted

"Support act" is also used a lot.

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1  
My dictionary says "supporting act". Probably a synonym. – Raku Nov 18 '11 at 13:26
up vote 5 down vote

"Warm up" act? I associate that more with comedians though rather than bands.

eta: Of course, support act as tinyd says.

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It works for both. Anyway, occasionally bands use comedians for this purpose. Plus there are musical comedy acts... – T.E.D. Nov 18 '11 at 13:10
Warm-up band is common enough even in writing. Warm-up is applicable to an opening act in any type of performance. – FumbleFingers Feb 22 '12 at 1:06
up vote 1 down vote

We've used the slight variation openers. The band we're seeing tonight has three openers. You could also just use with or featuring if you're need this info for promotional materials or tickets.

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