Noun

2. A lavishly-produced theatrical revue characterized by major stars, huge casts, and opulent costumes and scenery.

   The most famous Broadway theatrical revues of all time were the Ziegfeld Follies.

Usage notes

• The theatrical sense is probably influenced by the French usage, as with the Folies Bergères in Paris.
• The word is not really used any more, but the big Las Vegas shows meet the definition for follies.