An artist or group of artists will perform live in front of an audience as part of performance art. The performance will often take the shape of a prepared or improvisational event that incorporates aspects of theatre, music, dance, poetry & visual art. Traditional theatrical shows as well as more experimental & avant-garde performances that push the limits of conventional art forms are both examples of performance art. Performance art frequently uses the body as an expressive medium and can be quite physically demanding and engaging including the audience in many ways. Performance art can be used as a tool for activism or social criticism and can be politically or socially motivated.
Performance art comes in a variety of forms and there are numerous varieties of it. The following are some examples of performance art:
Theater Conventional theatre performances that may incorporate aspects of acting, singing, dance and set design.
Dance shows that feature choreography and movement and are frequently set to music.
Poetry is the live reading or recital of written or spoken works.
Live music performances during concerts, showcasing anything from conventional instruments to more avant-garde or experimental styles.
Spoken word performances in which a monologue or other piece of spoken word is delivered frequently with an emphasis on social or political concerns.
Performance art more avant-garde and experimental performances that may incorporate aspects of theatre, music, dance and visual art and can be very improvised and interactive.
Street performance a performance that takes place in a public area such as a park or a street and may include theatrical, musical or other artistic components.
Live art a performance in which visual works of art such as paintings or sculptures are created in front of an audience.
