Burletta

/bɜrˈet.ə/ noun

Definition

A short dramatic work, usually comic or musical, performed as light entertainment in theaters.

Etymology

Italian diminutive of 'burla' (jest or joke), derived from the same root as 'burlesque.' This word is primarily used in discussing 18th and 19th-century European theater.

Kelly Says

A burletta was essentially the 'sketch comedy' or 'short film' of the 1700s-1800s—quick, funny, musical pieces that audiences loved between longer dramatic performances.

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