In the grandeur of the Metropolitan Opera, Anthony Davis';s groundbreaking opera, a tale of societal upheaval and individual transformation unfolds with mesmerizing grace. Premiering in 1986, this influential production has, at long last, found its home at the Met. Under the astute guidance of Robert O';Hara, the luminary director nominated for his work on "Slave Play," the opera takes on a new life, transporting the audience through time and space with an evocative reimagination of Malcolm X.

O';Hara';s vision is nothing short of revolutionary, transforming Malcolm X from a historical figure to an everyman, a vessel through which the human experience transcends its temporal and spatial confines. The result is a narrative that resonates not only with the historical significance of Malcolm X but also with the shared struggles and triumphs of humanity.

The cast, a constellation of breakout artists and emerging Met stars, breathes life into the operatic retelling of Malcolm X';s life. Baritone Will Liverman, acclaimed for his triumphant performance in "Fire Shut Up in My Bones," embodies the complexity and depth of Malcolm X. Leah Hawkins, as Louise, Raehann Bryce-Davis as Ella, Michael Sumuel as Reginald, and Victor Ryan Robertson as Elijah Muhammad contribute to a tapestry of performances that capture the essence of each character.

Kazem Abdullah';s masterful direction of the newly revised score creates a layered and immersive experience. The infusion of jazz elements into Thulani Davis';s poignant libretto adds a sonic dimension that elevates the emotional resonance of the opera. The music becomes a character in itself, guiding the audience through the turbulent yet transformative jouey of Malcolm X.

"The Metropolitan Opera: X - The Life and Times of Malcolm X" transcends the boundaries of traditional opera, emerging as a multidimensional work of art that captivates the senses and stirs the soul. It not only pays homage to the historical figure but also prompts reflection on the broader themes of identity, justice, and societal change.

In the tradition of Pauline Kael';s incisive prose, this production at the Met stands as a testament to the power of art to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and challenge the status quo. It is a spectacle that demands not just attention but active engagement, an opera that leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.