Overview
The astonishing life of one of the most misunderstood men in history unfolds in X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X. This distinctly American opera by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Anthony Davis (Central Park Five), with libretto by Thulani Davis, story by Christopher Davis, and directed by Tony-nominee Robert O’Hara (Slave Play) features a jazz ensemble incorporated into the orchestra and Detroit Opera 21-22 Artist-in-Residence Davóne Tines embodying the role of Malcolm X. This new production of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X is a powerful, moving exploration of how one man’s fight to define his life on his own terms became the battle cry for justice of an entire people.
For a more in depth read about this production from historical musicologist David Gutkin, click the button below. David Gutkin is an Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins' Peabody Institute.
ANTHONY DAVIS'S X - DAVID GUTKIN
Pre-Opera Talk
Join Yuval Sharon, Artistic Director of Detroit Opera, before the opening night performance as he welcomes composer Anthony Davis and story author Christopher Davis for an inside look at the creation and evolution of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X. The Thursday performance will feature a panel with Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Minister Troy Muhammad from Muhammad Mosque #1, and City of Detroit Historian Jamon Jordan. The Sunday performance will feature Dr. Naomi Andre, author of "Black Opera: History, Power, Engagement" and Scholar-in-Residence at Seattle Opera.
Listen to Yuval Sharon, Artistic Director of Detroit Opera, before the opening night performance as he welcomed composer Anthony Davis , librettist Thulani Davis, and story author Christopher Davis for an inside look at the creation and evolution of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X.
Further Reading
The Day Malcolm X Was Killed - The New Yorker
Life of Civil Rights Icon Becomes an Opera with X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X - WDET
You Can Experience the Timeline of Malcolm X's Life at the Detroit Opera House - ClickonDetroit.com
Walk Through the Life of Malcolm X in Detroit's Staging of "X" - BLAC Detroit Magazine
St. Clair Shores Boy Dances His Way to the Opera House
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