up goes the donkey

English

Etymology

Said to have originated from a travelling showman whose finale involved the hoisting of a donkey on a pole or ladder.

Phrase

up goes the donkey

  1. (obsolete) The performance begins.

Usage notes
  • Used in conjunction with a required amount, to encourage the public to pay more money before the start of a show: e.g. "Twopence more, and up goes the donkey!"

References
  • 1873, John Camden Hotten, The Slang Dictionary (under donkey)
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