Afterpiece

An afterpiece is a performance, often a play, musical, or short entertainment, presented at the conclusion of a larger theatrical production or event. It traditionally serves as a lighter, often comedic, contrast to the main offering, aiming to entertain the audience before they depart. The afterpiece provides a chance for additional performance and showcases a variety of theatrical talent. Its purpose is typically to leave the audience in a good mood, providing a delightful finale. In essence, it is a concluding artistic addendum, a celebratory punctuation mark to the primary artistic presentation, aiming to enhance the overall experience and provide a memorable conclusion.

Afterpiece meaning with examples

• The evening's main play was a tragedy, but the theater also advertised a delightful, light-hearted afterpiece to follow. Many people were looking forward to the afterpiece to lighten the atmosphere. The play was an emotional experience, so the afterpiece was much appreciated.
• The opera house decided to showcase a short, upbeat musical as their afterpiece, contrasting the grand, dramatic opera. They hoped that this afterpiece would provide the audience with a lasting positive impression. The audience appreciated the contrast of the serious opera with a light and fun afterpiece.
• After a lengthy and serious debate in the parliamentary session, a short, humorous skit served as a political afterpiece, poking fun at the day's events. Many thought that the afterpiece lightened the tone of the session. It offered a satirical commentary and brought some levity after a serious debate.
• The comedian, following the main performance, introduced an improvised afterpiece involving audience participation. It's important for an afterpiece to engage the audience. Many enjoyed the comedian's afterpiece. The improvised afterpiece gave the audience a good laugh before the night was over.