DictionarynumberPerformance piece
noun

number

An individual piece in an entertainment performance.

The singer closes the show with a lively dance number.

Etymology

Individual performances could be listed as numbered items in a program. Number transferred from the item's position in the list to the song, dance, or other piece itself.

More examples

  • The orchestra rehearsed its opening number.
  • Her solo was my favorite number of the evening.
  • Three short numbers followed the intermission.

Forms

number · numbers

Similar words

selection
A performance piece chosen from a larger collection.
act
An act can contain several pieces rather than one musical or theatrical number.