What are the elements of performing arts?

How many times have you been spellbound by the performance of a graceful dancer, a melodious singer, or a passionate actor in a riveting play? The thrill of watching a live performance can be so exhilarating that by the end, you might find it hard to put into words the emotions or the magic you just witnessed. This is the essence of performing arts. These vibrant and captivating art forms are a fusion of skill, creativity and dedication. Artists blend the basic elements of performing arts to showcase their talents in front of live audiences, who are an integral part of the performance.  

But what truly makes a performance captivating? What resonates with the audience? In this blog, we’ll delve into these questions, explore the basic elements of performing arts, learn about different performance styles and answer some burning questions that emerging artists may have. Whether you’re a seasoned theatre enthusiast, a budding dancer, or just beginning your artistic journey, this blog is for you. So, buckle up — the curtain is about to rise on the secret of performing arts and we’re excited to have you here! 

What is performing arts? 

Before we explore the various elements of performing arts, let’s first understand what it is. Performing arts is a rich and diverse term that encompasses all art forms that are presented live to an audience, such as theatre, music, dance and more. Artists use their bodies, voices, movements and other creative expressions to tell stories, convey messages or even evoke emotions to entertain the audience. These art forms have been an important part of human culture for centuries and include a wide variety of disciplines. Their roots can be traced back to the futurist productions and Dada cabarets of the 1910s, although they became increasingly popular in the late 1960s and 1970s. 

Basic elements of performance arts 

There are five basic elements of performance arts. Each and every captivating performance is built upon these key elements and uses a combination of them to engage and entertain the audience. These elements of performing arts are: 

1. Time

A performance takes place for a specific duration. That’s why time is one of the most basic elements of performing arts. It helps set the pace, tone, rhythm and timing of various moments in the performances to enhance the overall experience. 

2. Space

Space is the physical area where a performance takes place. It can be a grand theatre stage, a bustling street corner, or even a digital platform. It is the environment in which the performer interacts with the audience. Great artists make the best of the space to enhance their performance. 

3. Performer’s body/ presence in a medium

The performer’s body is not just a vessel but often the primary instrument when telling a story or conveying an artistic message to create art. With the rise of digitisation, technology and objects have now started to take centre stage, like in puppetry shows, movies and digital performances. 

4. Relationship between performers and the public

The connection between performers and the audience is what brings a performance to life. It’s the magic of performing arts. Depending on the art form, this connection can be intimate and interactive or more distant and observational. Your presence and engagement can influence the energy and atmosphere of a performance, making it a memorable shared experience for all. 

5. Content or message of the artwork

The aim of almost every performance is to communicate something — a story, an emotion, a message, a social commentary, or sometimes just the beauty of being in the moment. The content, what the artist wants to share with the audience, is the essence of the performance. 

Type of performing arts: 

Now that we’ve learned about the elements of performing arts, let’s explore its various disciplines. In general, there are many forms of performing arts, but broadly, they can be categorised into three major art forms, each with its unique style and approach. These art forms are: 

1. Dance 

From the grace of ballet to the elegant waltz, the rhythm of the break dance to the energy of hip-hop, dance is one of the most popular forms of performing arts. Artists use their body and stage presence to express ideas and evoke emotions in their audiences. Mastering the art of dance takes years of practice, discipline, dedication and hard work. 

2. Music

Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries, religion, demographics and societal challenges to connect people worldwide in harmony. It involves different musical instruments and styles that vary in rhythm, pitch, dynamics, timbre and texture. Music can be performed solo by an artist or as a group, such as in a choir or band. It’s a form of art that welcomes everyone, regardless of their background or experience. 

3. Theatre

Theatre is a vast category of performing arts that includes various disciplines like drama, musicals, operas, puppetry and marionette theatre. Artists use a combination of elements of performing arts and art forms like time, body, movement, dialogue, song and music to narrate stories and share messages. Digital art forms such as film, TV and electronic media also come under the theatre umbrella. 

Ready to take the stage? Study performing arts at APAC 

Performing arts offers you a unique chance to express yourself creatively, tell stories and evoke emotions. So, if you’re passionate about art and want to develop your skills, you’ve come to the right place! Australian Performing Arts Conservatory (APAC) offers courses like the Bachelor of Screen & Stage (Acting) and Bachelor of Screen & Stage (Screen Production) that can help you not only hone your craft but also discover your potential. Our comprehensive approach provides you with hands-on training and education in the performing arts. Join us today to master the elements of performing arts, unleash your creativity and share your talent with the world. 

Frequently asked questions about what are the elements of performing arts 

Q1. What are the basic elements of performing arts? 

A1. The basic elements of performing arts are time, space, the performer’s body and the performer’s relationship with the audience. 

Q2. What are the different types of performing arts? 

A2. There are many different types of performing arts, but some major forms are music, dance, theatre, circus, opera, puppetry, mine and digital media. All disciplines of performing arts have their own unique skills and styles to narrate stories and convey messages. 

Q3. What are the major genres in performing arts? 

A3. Some of the major genres across different disciplines of performing arts are comedy, drama, epic, lyrical, romance, tragedy, tragicomedy and satire. 

Q4. What is the importance of performance art? 

A4. Performing art is important because it gives you and each and every artist a platform to be creative and share your ideas with the world. It allows you to transport your audience to magical lands, present different perspectives and evoke deep emotions that resonate with them. It is an extraordinary opportunity for you to make the mundane extraordinary. 

Q5. How can I learn performing arts? 

A5. You can learn and master performing arts through formal education. APAC offers Bachelor programs in Screen & Stage (Acting) and Screen & Stage (Screen Production) that can help you refine your skills and confidently share your emotions, thoughts and ideas with a wider audience.