What does the term 'dramatic relief' refer to in performance?

The term "dramatic relief" refers to the concept of providing emotional alleviation through humor in a performance. This mechanism allows audiences to experience a temporary break from intense or serious moments, creating a contrast that heightens emotional engagement. When a dramatic narrative includes lighter, humorous elements, it serves to relieve tension, allowing viewers to process the unfolding story more comfortably. This strategic use of humor makes the following serious moments more impactful by ensuring that the audience is not overwhelmed by continuous emotional intensity.

In this context, while music and interludes can play important roles in enhancing the emotional landscape of a performance, they are not the essence of dramatic relief itself. Similarly, serious moments in comedy do not encapsulate the idea of alleviation through humor but instead illustrate how comedy can coexist with serious themes.