Intermission
Intermission refers to a break between parts of a performance or event. It is commonly used in the context of theater, opera, ballet, and concerts, as well as in long films. The purpose of an intermission is to allow the audience to rest, stretch, use restrooms, and avail themselves of concessions. It also provides performers and crew time to prepare for the next part of the performance. The duration of an intermission can vary, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the event's nature.
History[edit | edit source]
The concept of an intermission has roots in the early history of theater and performance arts. In ancient Greek and Roman times, breaks were incorporated into long performances to give both the audience and performers a rest. During the Renaissance, intermissions became more structured, often featuring intermezzi, short performances that occurred between the acts of a play.
Purpose and Benefits[edit | edit source]
The primary purpose of an intermission is to provide a pause in the proceedings, benefiting both the audience and the performers. For the audience, it offers a chance to discuss the performance, visit amenities, and stretch, enhancing the overall experience. For performers, it allows time to rest, change costumes, and set up the stage for the next act.
Modern Usage[edit | edit source]
In modern times, the use of intermissions varies by the type of event. While still prevalent in live theater and opera, many modern films, especially those with shorter runtimes, do not have an intermission. However, some directors of longer films choose to include an intermission to improve viewer comfort.
Controversy[edit | edit source]
The inclusion of intermissions in films has been a topic of debate. Proponents argue that for longer films, an intermission can make the viewing experience more comfortable, while opponents believe it can disrupt the narrative flow and immersion.
See Also[edit | edit source]
This article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by registering to expand it. |
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD