TAMPA — “The Meeting” will open on Friday, April 17, 8 p.m., at Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., in Tampa’s Channel District. The production will run through May 3.
Performances will be Friday at 8 p.m., and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Matinees will be offered Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. Individual tickets are available for purchase online at www.stageworkstheatre.org. Discounts are available for seniors, students, educators, and military personnel (with valid ID).
“The Meeting” is a fictional yet deeply resonant encounter between two of the most influential figures of the civil rights era. Fascinating and dramatically compelling, this eloquent play depicts the supposed meeting of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Differing in their philosophies but alike in their mutual respect, the two men debate their approaches to the same grave social problems, both prepared to die for their beliefs yet unaware of how soon their assassins’ bullets would await them.
As conversations about civil rights, diversity, social equity and leadership make headlines and continue to shape communities across the United States, “The Meeting” offers audiences an opportunity to reflect on the historical roots of those discussions and the leaders who helped define them.
Through sharp dialogue and intimate staging, the play examines enduring questions about justice, unity and the pursuit of social change while inviting audiences to consider how differing philosophies can coexist within a shared movement.
“’The Meeting’ provides a rare opportunity to experience two towering historical voices in conversation,” said Karla Hartley, producing artistic director. “It challenges audiences to engage thoughtfully with differing perspectives and reflect on the courage required to stand firm in one’s convictions.”
Marc Coleman and Lance Markeith Felton star as Dr. King and Malcom X, respectively. Demetre Taylor plays Rashad, Malcom X’s bodyguard and confidant.
Rory Lawrence leads the creative team for “The Meeting” as director. He joins Karla Hartley in set design, with Hartley also creating the lighting design. Costume Design is by Tricia Boskovic. The production team is headed up by Heather Krueger, production stage manager. Brianna Brand is serving as stage manager; James Putnam is production carpenter; and Skylar Jay is the scenic artist.
Stageworks Theatre is Tampa’s longest-running professional theatre company. To learn more, visit www.stageworkstheatre.org.