Entracte

Entr'acte is a French term meaning literally “between the acts.” In theatre, opera, and ballet, it denotes the interval separating consecutive acts. The term can refer to the intermission itself or, more specifically, to the music or performance presented during the intermission to bridge the acts. It has become a standard concept across European stage traditions and is associated with works that are named or described as entractes.

In practice, an entr'acte may be a short orchestral piece, a dance number, a chorus, or a brief scene that serves as a transition. It functions to maintain momentum and mood between acts, and in some productions it acts as a prelude to the next portion of the performance. The idea is closely related to terms like intermezzo or intermission music, though entr’acte emphasizes the transitional nature of the material.

Entr'acte (1924) also refers to a notable work in cinema: a short experimental film by René Clair and Francis Picabia, with music by Erik Satie. Created to be shown between acts of the ballet Parade, it is regarded as an important early experiment in avant-garde cinema and is celebrated for its surreal imagery and inventive use of music.

Beyond stage and film, the term entr'acte may appear in program notes to designate transitional music or scenes within a larger multi-act work. It remains a concise label for material that serves to link major sections of a performance, rather than to stand as a standalone piece.