mystery play

noun

1. a medieval dramatic form based on a Biblical story, usually dealing with the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

mystery play

noun

1. (in the Middle Ages) a type of drama based on the life of Christ Compare miracle play

Word History and Origins

Origin of mystery play¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

This is “Pelléas” not as a mystery play, but as an unsparingly forceful drama.

From New York Times

At some point, the mystery play date arrives.

From New York Times

Ancient inscriptions suggest the theater hosted literary, musical and athletic competitions and even mystery plays.

From New York Times

“When theater returns it must return with danger. I think of roving bands of actors, post-plague, performing mock mystery plays on the street that lead, eventually, to a theater where people assemble.”

From New York Times

At Village Theatre, he directed several shows, including the mystery play “Sleuth.”

From Seattle Times