People traditionally shout “Encore” when they want a performer to return to the stage. The word refers to the additional performance audiences hope to hear after the main show has ended.
“Encore” comes from French, meaning “again” or “some more.” The custom is closely associated with European opera and concert traditions, where enthusiastic applause could persuade a singer or musician to repeat an aria or perform another short piece. Encores are believed to have developed in the 18th century, and Mozart’s 1786 premiere of *The Marriage of Figaro* is a famous early example in which repeated pieces reportedly made performances much longer.
Today, an encore may be spontaneous, but many performers plan it in advance and leave popular songs off the printed set list. In theatre, audiences may also applaud until actors return for a final curtain call, although that return is usually for bows rather than another full performance.
“More” and “Again” express the audience’s wish, but “Encore” is the traditional, single-word theatre and concert call. “Bravo” means approval or praise; it does not specifically ask the performer to return.