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

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

Several government buildings in the capital have put up banners of the president, while officials have added his name onto the Kennedy Center for the performing arts and the dismantled US Institute of Peace.

From Barron's ● Apr. 28, 2026

The 37-year-old, a performing arts teacher at Foxfield School in Wirral, said he was now "thankful" she did - after his effort stunned listeners.

From BBC ● Apr. 16, 2026

The TV musical The Cheetah Girls, about four girls in a band at a performing arts high school in New York City, had just come out.

From "Courage to Soar" by Simone Biles