Historical clue formulations

• Got things going — 2025-06-26
• Uncorked — 2022-01-17
• Kicked things off — 2021-08-05
• Led the way — 2021-07-09
• Went on first — 2019-01-31
• No longer shrink-wrapped — 2018-12-17
• Had a first night in a theater — 2018-01-31
• Bid first — 2017-11-16
• Laid down the first card — 2016-10-31
• Played first — 2016-10-22
• Warmed up the crowd (for) — 2014-12-14
• Made the first bid — 2014-04-28
• Spread out — 2013-11-15
• Responded to a dentist's request — 2013-06-21
• Broached — 2011-03-20
• Performed prior to the main act — 2009-05-04
• Unlocked — 2008-09-29
• Performed prior to the main act — 2007-05-10
• Spread out — 2005-12-24
• Said "one club," e.g. — 2004-07-29
• Bid first — 2002-01-20
• Blossomed forth — 2001-09-11
• In full bloom — 2001-07-08
• Kicked off — 2000-10-18
• Warmed up the crowd — 1999-10-03
• Began — 1998-10-24
• No longer shrink-wrapped — 1998-06-14
• Spread — 1996-10-03
• Kicked off — 1994-12-07
• Unlocked — 1994-04-26