Follies are an old theatrical term for comedic productions. Although their content may have changed over the years, follies remain a popular form of entertainment.

The word "folly" comes from the Old French for "something superfluous" and is first recorded in English in the fifteenth century. In the seventeenth century, English playwright Francis Beaumont and his protege John Fletcher used the word in their comedies, mostly involving slapstick and foolish characters.

Although follies were generally intended for private performances, they occasionally popped up on public stages.