Two actors posed as Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. for a portrait — Lance Markeith Felton (L) and Marc Coleman star as Malcom X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
in the Stageworks Theatre production of “The Meeting,” running April 17 through May 3. Credit: James Zambon/Stageworks

Stageworks Theatre’s new play imagines how two Civil Rights leaders would’ve talked out their differences.

“The Meeting,” opening Friday, depicts a hypothetical conversation between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, who were considered opposites in their philosophical approaches to the Civil Rights movement.

The dialogue between the two —X, played by Marc Coleman, and King portrayed by “When The Righteous Triumph” standout Markeith Felton—delves into whether a movement with shared goals has room for different beliefs.

“The Meeting” provides a rare opportunity to experience two towering historical voices in conversation,” Kayla Hartley, producing artistic director, said in a press release. “It challenges audiences to engage thoughtfully with differing perspectives and reflect on the courage required to stand firm in one’s convictions.”

Tickets start at $30 for “The Meeting,” running April 17-May 3 at Stageworks Theatre in Tampa.