amateur night

noun

1. an entertainment featuring amateur performers, often in competition for prizes.
2. Informal. an example of or situation marked by flagrant ineptitude:

   Critics say it's been amateur night at the embassy since the new ambassador took over.

Word History and Origins

Origin of amateur night¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

But the spotlight stays pretty tight on Fitzgerald’s music and career, her rise from an amateur night at Harlem’s storied Apollo Theater to grueling club tours to stalwart status at venues including the Hollywood Bowl, the Newport Jazz Festival and the Mocambo, the ritzy Hollywood nightclub where she was befriended by Marilyn Monroe, who pushed management to make Fitzgerald a regular attraction.

From Los Angeles Times

The melodiously rowdy punk rock ‘n’ rollers have made a habit of these pre-turkey day shows, moving their third-annual “amateur night” party to the Sunset this year and teaming with OG crossover kings The Accused A.D.

From Seattle Times

With the aid of a borrowed ID, he got to witness them dance during an amateur night at the now-shuttered strip club Jezebel’s.

From Los Angeles Times

Some of the more popular regular shows include Amateur Night, a decades-old competition for emerging talent that helped to launch the careers of such artists as Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo.

From Seattle Times

The next week, Harvey himself stepped up to the mic for the first time, won amateur night and cried the entire ride home.

From Washington Post