matinee

A matinee is a daytime performance of a theater, cinema, or other event, typically held in the late morning or early afternoon and distinct from an evening show. The term comes from the French matinée, meaning morning, but in English it has come to denote a daytime presentation. Matinees are common for plays, musicals, and film screenings, and may be scheduled to accommodate families, students, or audiences who prefer daytime viewing.

The concept originated in 19th-century European theaters as a way to attract patrons who could not attend evening performances. As cinema became widespread, matinee screenings became a standard feature, often offered at lower prices than evening shows to draw larger daytime audiences. In many markets, the practice continues, with programming tailored to different age groups and interests, including children’s performances, school matinees, and screenings of new releases or re-releases.

Typical matinee times vary by venue but generally fall in the late morning to early afternoon, such as around 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Ticket pricing for matinees is frequently cheaper than prime-time sessions, reflecting the lighter demand in daytime hours. The term is also used in some contexts to describe daytime performances in other performing arts, including concerts and dance, though it remains most closely associated with theatre and cinema.

In contemporary usage, matinees remain a practical option for audiences seeking accessibility, affordability, or leisure activities during the day, while operators use them to broaden audience reach and optimize schedules.