Dance and performance arts are an important aspect of many cultures, including that of the Arabic-speaking world. Whether you’re watching a performance or taking part in it, understanding the relevant vocabulary can greatly enhance your appreciation and participation. Here is a selection of key dance and performance arts terms in Arabic along with their definitions and examples.

رقصة (raqsah) – Dance (in general)
This term refers to the art of movement of the body in a rhythmic way, usually to music, and within a given space, for the purpose of expressing an idea or emotion, releasing energy, or simply taking delight in the movement itself.
هل شاهدت الرقصة الشعبية في المهرجان؟ (Did you watch the folk dance at the festival?)

مسرح (masrah) – Theater
The general term for the place where plays and performances are held. It can also refer to the profession of acting and the world of theater.
العرض المسرحي الليلة في السابعة مساءً. (The theater performance tonight is at 7 PM.)

فرقة (firqah) – Troupe/Company
A group of performers, especially dancers or actors, who perform together.
اشتهرت الفرقة بعروضها المبتكرة. (The troupe is famous for its innovative shows.)

باليه (baleeh) – Ballet
A highly technical form of dance with its own vocabulary based on French terminology. It has been globally influential and has defined the foundational techniques used in many other dance genres.
تدربت على رقص الباليه لعدة سنوات. (I have trained in ballet for several years.)

كوريغرافي (koreeghrafi) – Choreography
The art of designing sequences of movements in which motion, form, or both are specified.
عمل الكوريغرافي لساعات لينتهي من الرقصة. (The choreographer worked for hours to finish the dance.)

موسيقى (moseeqa) – Music
Music often goes hand in hand with dance in performances. In Arabic, this term encompasses all kinds of musical forms.
تعلمت عزف الموسيقى الكلاسيكية على البيانو. (I learned to play classical music on the piano.)

ازياء (azyaa) – Costumes
Clothing worn by performers during a dance show, play, or any theatrical performance. Costumes are often extravagant and designed to represent a certain character or theme.
اختاروا الأزياء بعناية لتناسب العصر الفيكتوري. (They carefully chose the costumes to fit the Victorian era.)

إضاءة (idha’ah) – Lighting
Refers to the deliberate use of light to achieve a practical or aesthetic effect in performances. Good lighting can enhance the mood and aesthetic of a dance or a play.
لعبت الإضاءة دوراً هاماً في تلك المسرحية. (Lighting played an important role in that play.)

ديكور (dekor) – Set/Scenery
The background and props that are used on stage to represent the scene of a play, dance performance, or movie. The set helps establish the context and setting.
كان الديكور لهذه القطعة المسرحية معبراً للغاية. (The set for this theater piece was very expressive.)

مقطوعة موسيقية (mawqi’at moseeqiya) – Musical piece
A piece of music that is often played or performed during a dance.
عزفت الأوركسترا مقطوعة موسيقية رائعة. (The orchestra played a wonderful musical piece.)

تمثيل (tamtheel) – Acting
The art of performing a character in a play, film, or television show.
أظهرت مهارة في التمثيل خلال العرض الأخير. (She showed great acting skill during the last performance.)

استعراض (esta’rad) – Show/Review
A performance event that is intended to showcase a particular type of dance, singing, or acting skill.
سنذهب لمشاهدة استعراض الرقص المعاصر معاً؟ (Shall we go to watch the contemporary dance show together?)

By becoming familiar with these words, you will be better equipped to discuss and enjoy the rich world of dance and performance arts in the Arabic-speaking world. Whether you’re a spectator, a student, or a practitioner, knowledge of the appropriate terminology is key to deepening your understanding and appreciation of this vibrant art form.