(Photo: Marty Sohl / Met Opera)

The Metropolitan Opera will team up with The Apollo to present a free simulcast of “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” on Nov. 18, 2023.

This represents the first-ever collaboration between the two institutions. The Apollo seats approximately 1,200 people.

“The Apollo is thrilled to be partnering with the Metropolitan Opera to bring the legendary opera ‘X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X’ directly to the Harlem community where Malcolm’s presence continues to vibrate throughout our buildings, sidewalks, and streets,” said Kamilah Forbes, Executive Producer of The Apollo in an official press release issued by the Met Opera. “Two iconic institutions coming together to uplift this powerful work in homage to one of our greatest Black leaders, while making it accessible to the people who live in the historic neighborhood where Malcolm X found his voice, is no better manifestation of the values and mission of The Apollo.”

“X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” was written by Thulani Davis and composed by Anthony Davis and features Will Liverman and Leah Hawkins, among others. Angela Bassett, who starred in the 1992 film “Malcolm X” will host the simulcast.

Of the production, OperaWire’s own Chris Ruel noted that “The Met, traditionally a bastion of opera’s classic repertoire, transformed into a forum for reflection on social justice, equal rights, and the ongoing danger of police brutality or vigilante justice that Black Americans continue to face. It was an evening with profound impact.”