Olio (musical number)

The term "olio" is believed to derive either from the Spanish olla, originally meaning a clay pot but later used to describe its mix of contents, or from the oilcloth curtains used during the acts.

[1] Olio performances consisted of artistic or literary works or musical pieces, used between acts in a burlesque or minstrel show, similar to the modern variety show.

[2] Olios in minstrel shows often contained a parodic stump speech, mocking the oratory of white politicians.

Some burlesque houses would display advertisements on these curtains, similar to a billboard.

[1] Due to their popularity, by the 1860s the olio became the largest component of minstrel shows.