Show business, sometimes shortened to show biz or showbiz (since ca. 1945), is a vernacular term for all aspects of entertainment, especially light entertainment. The word applies to all aspects of the entertainment industry from the business side (including managers, agents, producers and distributors) to the creative element (including artists, performers, writers, musicians and technicians). The term was in common usage throughout the 20th century but the first known use in print dates from 1850. At that time and for several decades it always included an initial the. By the latter part of the century it had acquired a slightly arcane quality associated with the era of variety, but the term is still in active use.<
Famous quotes containing the words show business, show and/or business:
“That’s what show business is—sincere insincerity.”
—Benny Hill (1925–1992)
“Lora May: How do I look?
Sadie: If I was you I’d show more of what I got. Maybe wear something with beads.
Lora May: What I got don’t need beads.”
—Joseph L. Mankiewicz (1909–1993)
“It is bad to be poor. I shall go to the wall for bread and meat, if I neglect my business this year as well as last.”
—Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)