performing arts

American  

plural noun

1. arts or skills that require public performance, as acting, singing, or dancing.

---

performing arts British  

plural noun

1. the arts that are primarily performed before an audience, such as dance and drama

---

Etymology

Origin of performing arts

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

performing arts

Many of the 1,500 unique job titles represent specialist roles, like a lighting technician for performing arts who may also tune the pianos.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

The Shaftesbury Theatre in London's West End is to be renamed after the actress Dame Judi Dench, to celebrate her "unparalleled contribution" to British theatre and the performing arts.

From BBC ● Jun. 16, 2026

Compton High alums and hip-hop heavyweights Kendrick Lamar and Dr. Dre joined the celebration, and the latter was honored for his $10-million donation to the new performing arts center.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 29, 2026

He packed oversight commissions with appointees who would rubber-stamp his delusions of grandeur and did the same with the Kennedy Center, whose new board promptly renamed the performing arts venue for him.

From Slate ● May 18, 2026

For building disability awareness and as an educational tool for success in the performing arts.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin