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

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

Separate theater and music departments became performing arts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Maria Superata, a geisha expert who has worked with them as an interpreter, explained that the show "combines all of the traditional performing arts that you can see in Japan".

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

I can so clearly see you demanding something from the performing arts that just isn’t residual there.

From "Franny and Zooey" by J. D. Salinger