An intermission, also known as an interval, is a recess typically between two parts of a performances or theatrical production such as for a play, concert, or a film screening.
Here are 6 facts you didn’t know about intermissions:
It’s a comfort break
An intermission is not only for the audience to take a break or stretch their legs, but also for the performers.
In live performances in theatres where actors play various parts including multiple outfits changes, an intermission allows them to take a breather. This can also provide valuable opportunity for stagehands to make any necessary changes to the set or stage before the next act.
“Broadway Bladder”
Intermissions were also known as “Broadway Bladder” due to the “alleged need of Broadway audience to “use the restroom” every 75 minutes” so theatres incorporated breaks. Meaning people can hold on comfortably for up to 75 minutes, post which it’s ideal to take care of any personal needs.
But the purpose of such intermissions was more than just a break in the early days of cinema. That leads me to fact #3.
Reel change
In the pre-digital era, intermission was the time used by projectionist to change reels, that were often presented in multiple acts.
Some movie theatre such as the IMAX, have a longer intermission to allow for the change of reels, as the films are in a 70mm format. Today, intermissions are less common because there’s no requirement of a reel change as most films are shown on a single reel or digital format
Sales
Psychologically, intermissions allow the audience to pause, absorb the experience, and it also grab a snack. Munch on some popcorn and sip on coke. Which is kind of a great marketing tactic by theatres to generate more sales.
Cliff-hanger
Intermissions can be used as a dramatic plot device to build anticipation or suspense for the next act. I think this would be incorporated in the writing stages to ensure the desired reaction in edit.
Personal preference
This kinda depends on the culture and each theatre owners, I guess. Did you know that Bollywood films screened at cinemas in India and United Kingdom commonly include intermissions because they’re typically quite lengthy, But the same films are shown without any pauses in United States and Canada.
Here’s a bonus fact
Did you know 1964’s Sangam and 1970’s Mera Naam Joker are two of the lengthiest films in Hindi cinema, and both had not one but two intervals.
