Crossword Genius

Tot put on a performance (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

drama

'performance' is the definition.
(I have seen 'Theatrical performance ' mean 'drama' so perhaps 'performance' could also mean 'drama')

'tot put on a' is the wordplay.
'tot' becomes 'dram' (both can mean an alcoholic drink).
'put on' says to put letters next to each other.
'dram'+'a'='DRAMA'

(Other definitions for drama that I've seen before include "Theatrical piece" , "theatre studies" , "Serious play" , "sensation" , "Theatrical production" .)

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