noun
large-scale play; play with an A-list cast
Refers to a theatrical production with a grand scale or a star-studded cast. Often contrasted with 小芝居 (small-scale play).
See also: 小芝居
今度の歌舞伎は大芝居で、有名な役者が勢揃いだ。
The upcoming kabuki is a large-scale play with a lineup of famous actors.
noun
big act
Used figuratively for an exaggerated or insincere performance in real life, like putting on a big show to deceive or impress.
彼の謝罪は大芝居に過ぎない。
His apology is nothing more than a big act.
noun
licensed theatre (Edo period)
Historical term for a theatre that held a government license during the Edo period, as opposed to unlicensed small theatres (小芝居).
江戸時代、大芝居は幕府の許可を得た正式な劇場を指した。
In the Edo period, 大芝居 referred to an officially licensed theatre approved by the shogunate.