The Interlude was a form of entertainment in medieval England, often characterized by short theatrical performances.
It emerged as a precursor to the more structured form of drama.
The Morality, Miracle, and Liturgical plays were earlier forms that had specific religious themes, whereas Interludes were more secular and varied in content.
Thus, the Interlude can be viewed as a bridge between the earlier forms and the true drama that followed.
This makes it the immediate predecessor of the drama proper.