énstykke

Enstykke is a Danish term for a play that is written and performed in a single act. The word literally means “one piece” or “one act,” and it is used to distinguish such works from full-length dramas divided into two or more acts.

Characteristics of an enstykke typically include a shorter running time, usually ranging from about 15 to 60 minutes, though there is variation by production. The structure may consist of one or several scenes set in a limited number of locations. The emphasis is often on a concise central conflict or moment, with a focus on character interaction and a tightly wound dramatic arc. Casts are usually smaller than in longer plays, which can contribute to a more intimate or experimental performance style.

In theatre programming, enstykker are commonly used for festival programs, student productions, and repertory programs, where several shorter works are mounted together. They are valued for their flexibility, lower production costs, and opportunities for playwrights to test ideas, voices, or styles without the commitment required by longer works. The form also lends itself to experimental writing and contemporary themes, enabling rapid rehearsals and a brisk audience experience.

Historically, the enstykke gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries across Europe as a practical and artistic format complementary to longer plays. In Danish theatre, the form continues to be used both in professional companies and in amateur settings, reflecting its enduring utility for storytelling that can be delivered in a compact, focused package.