1
general::
Show unexpected skill in dealing with a difficulty that arises, as in The leading man broke his leg in the first act but his understudy rose to the occasion and was rewarded with excellent reviews. [Mid-1800s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): rise to the occasion
Fig. to meet the challenge of an event; to try extra hard to do a task. • John was able to rise to the occasion and make the conference a success. • It was a big challenge, but he rose to the occasion.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs