The Meeting (play)

The Meeting is a play by Jeff Stetson, first produced in 1987. The play is a historical fiction piece depicting a fictional meeting between Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. in a hotel room in Harlem in 1965, just before Malcolm X's assassination.

The play focuses on the contrasting ideologies and approaches to achieving civil rights for African Americans held by King, advocating nonviolent resistance and integration, and Malcolm X, initially advocating self-defense and Black nationalism. The Meeting explores the nuances of their positions, personal struggles, and the potential for common ground. It aims to humanize these iconic figures, moving beyond simplistic portrayals to explore the complexities of their beliefs and the pressures they faced.

The two men are accompanied by their bodyguards, Rashad for Malcolm X and understanding of King’s position. It serves as a dramatic device to offer perspectives and raise questions about the strategies and sacrifices involved in the fight for racial equality.

The Meeting has been widely performed in theaters, schools, and community centers, often serving as a catalyst for discussions about race, identity, and social justice. It is praised for its thought-provoking dialogue and its ability to bring these two influential figures to life.