1. short dramatic performances presented after the main play in a theater
Usage: theatrical; historical

Examples

• The theater company performed comedic afterpieces following each tragedy.
• Eighteenth-century audiences expected entertaining afterpieces after serious dramas.
• The actors prepared brief afterpieces to lighten the mood after heavy performances.
• Many afterpieces were musical numbers or short comedies.
• The director chose lively afterpieces to send audiences home happy.
• Traditional afterpieces often featured the same actors in lighter roles.