performing arts

American  

plural noun

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

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performing arts British  

plural noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of performing arts

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Separate theater and music departments became performing arts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Festival organizers believe that a wide array of performing arts created by transgender artists can be a lifeline.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Speaking at a keynote panel to promote his upcoming sci-fi film "Disclosure Day," the 79-year-old director drew cheers when he invoked the performing arts forms that Chalamet seemed to dismiss in a recent appearance.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

The performing arts venue is now preparing to shut down for a two-year renovation.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Under the radar, and without a formal charter, he had transformed Truman into something like a high school for the performing arts.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove