1A play or drama performed on stage by actors; also used figuratively for a put-on act or pretense that conceals one's true feelings.
今度の休みに友人と芝居を見に行くつもりだ。
I'm planning to go see a play with a friend during the next holiday.
彼女は舞台で長年芝居を続けてきた。
She has continued acting on stage for many years.
泣いているのは芝居で、本当は平気だったらしい。
Her crying was apparently just an act — she was actually fine.
その一座は地方を回って芝居を上演している。
That troupe tours the provinces performing plays.