The author of an opera's libretto (or words or lyrics) The text or script of an opera is referred to as a libretto, which is an Italian term that means "small book." The word "opera" comes from the Latin operae, meaning "works," "operations," or "affairs." In medieval France and Italy, people went to the theater to see performances composed of music and dance. So, an "opera" was originally just a musical performance with no spoken words. Over time, more elements were added to operas. First, there were scenes: portions of the music or drama that could be played independently of each other. Later, intermezzi ("intermediate pieces") were added between acts. These are short sections of music that provide relief from the tension of the acting and singing that has been going on up to that point. Finally, at the end of the 18th century, composers began adding preludes, overtures, and finales to their operas. These are shorter pieces that set the scene for the rest of the work and often include themes that will be developed further in the main body of the composition.