The term refers to a brief, often humorous, theatrical piece, typically lasting approximately fifteen minutes. These short plays often served as curtain-raisers or intermissions between longer acts. The format prioritizes brevity and impact, often focusing on a single, comedic situation or character interaction to quickly engage the audience.
The value of such a short dramatic work lies in its ability to entertain and captivate an audience without demanding a significant time commitment. Historically, they offered opportunities for playwrights and actors to showcase their talent in a concentrated format, while providing audiences with a lighthearted diversion. These short plays could set a positive tone for the evening or offer a respite during lengthy performances.
