Pronunciation: [wˈɒn ˈakts] (IPA) 
The phonetic transcription of "one acts" is /wʌn ækts/. The "o" sound in "one" is pronounced as a short "uh" sound, while the "a" sound in "acts" is pronounced as a short "a" sound. The "cts" at the end of "acts" is pronounced as a "k" and "s" sound together. "One acts" refers to a type of play consisting of several short scenes, each with its own plot, characters, and setting.
One-acts, also known as one-act plays or single-act plays, refer to a form of dramatic performance characterized by its condensed format which typically consists of a single act. They are standalone theatrical pieces that offer a complete story, usually presenting a single conflict, theme, or set of characters within a short duration of time, typically under an hour. Unlike full-length plays, one-acts are designed to provide a swift and compact theatrical experience that does not require an intermission or major scene changes.
With limited time and space, one-acts often focus on capturing a poignant moment of conflict, revelation, or resolution. They showcase the creativity of playwrights in crafting concise narratives that deliver a powerful impact, employing concise dialogue, minimal settings, and a concentrated plot. These works might explore various genres, such as drama, comedy, tragedy, or even experimental forms of theater.
One-acts serve multiple purposes, ranging from educational settings to professional showcases, allowing emerging and established playwrights, directors, and actors to exhibit their talent. They can be utilized in theater festivals, competitions, or as part of a larger production, providing opportunities to experiment with different themes, styles, or theatrical techniques.
In summary, one-acts are self-contained plays that effectively deliver a complete story within a single act, offering a condensed theatrical experience that showcases the skills of the playwright, thespians, and production team.
The word "one-act" originated in the early 20th century and is derived from the combination of "one" and "act".
"One" comes from the Old English word "ān", which means "single" or "alone". It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European word "oi-no", meaning "one".
"Act" is derived from the Latin word "actus", which means "a doing" or "a performance". It also has connections to the Latin verb "agere", meaning "to do" or "to act".
When combined, "one-act" refers to a type of theatrical performance consisting of a single act or scene, typically shorter in duration compared to full-length plays. The term is commonly used to describe short plays, often performed together in a sequence or as part of a collection.
