a play or drama performed on stage; also used figuratively for theatrical or affected behavior.
週末に市立劇場で芝居を観に行く予定だ。
I'm planning to go see a play at the municipal theater this weekend.
子どもたちは庭で芝居ごっこをして遊んでいた。
The children were playing make-believe plays in the yard.
彼の涙は本当ではなく、ただの芝居だった。
His tears weren't real; they were just an act.