Crossword Genius

Should first two stay for a long while at party or make exit to the rear? (5,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stage door

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'should first two stay for a long while at party or' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'exit to the rear?' is the wordplay.
'exit' becomes 'door' (I've seen this in another clue).
'to' is a charade indicator (letters next to each other) (I've seen this in other clues).
'the rear?' becomes 'stage' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'door' after 'stage' is 'STAGE-DOOR'.

'make' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stage door that I've seen before include "Theatre back entrance" , "sign autographs here?" , "Theatre rear entrance" , "Film" , "Actors' entrance/exit" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app