Barnstorm
(verb)
To tour rural areas, giving performances, especially in a circus or traveling theater.
Origin:
First recorded in 1912, from the practice of flying circus performers of landing on farmers' fields and putting on shows in barns.
Examples:
- Barnstorming was a popular form of entertainment in the early 20th century.
- The pilot offered to barnstorm the local fair.
- He barnstormed the countryside, putting on impromptu shows in farmers' fields.
- The political candidate barnstormed the state, giving speeches in small towns and rural areas.
- The comedy troupe decided to barnstorm the Midwest, putting on shows in small towns and villages.