Is Super Mario Bros. 3 just a play?
This Cracked article blew my mind. I don't know how I never made the connection before.
http://www.cracked.com/article_19882_6-insane-but-convincing-fan-theories-about-kids-cartoons.html
No, the events are real. The stage curtain just enhances the effect of this being entertainment. It's a cute way of saying to players that they are starting and ending their own shows at the opening and final screens.
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