Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day: A Medieval Carol

This anonymous carol first appeared in William B. Sandys Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern in 1833. It is believed to have been written sometime within the fourteenth century. In it the narrator who is Jesus tells us the story of his life and he refers to it as a play. Also he repeats again and again the wish to dance with his true love which has been generally interpreted as the Church the Bride of Christ. It is believed that the practice of celebrate the birth of Jesus by caroling - singing simple songs of praise and worship - dates back to the early second century. The terms ballad and carol implied dancing as well as singing and were indeed sung by people dancing. They were influenced by early liturgical music folk songs festival dances and the troubadour repertoire. Carole dances were performed in circles and spirals. In medieval Europe mystery plays which told of the life of Christ were performed in churches during Christmas Eve and then later on outdoor stages in the streets. Carols were integrated into these performances. Passion plays also developed out of church rituals. They depict the suffering death and Resurrection of Christ.