By Abbie Peterson
Published November 24, 2022
OMAHA, Neb.
High school students here in Omaha are learning from a renowned opera singer. Joshua Conyers is in town performing for Opera Omaha’s production of “X, The Life and Times of Malcolm X.”
He’s been singing opera since age 14 — from the Bronx, and now to Omaha for his next role.
“When you hear I’m doing an opera about Malcolm X, I mean you just kind of jump for joy,” Conyers said.
Conyers was cast as Malcolm X’s brother Reginald in the recent Opera Omaha production about Malcom X.
“It’s so special. I mean, opportunities like this to get a cast of all Black people is rare in the opera field. And I just feel honored that I had the opportunity, that I was chosen to be a part of this opera and then a part of this amazing cast,” Conyers said.
While in town, he made his way to North Omaha Music and Arts to teach a master class for high schoolers.
NOMA executive director Dana Murray said having Conyers here is extremely special.
“Especially when you’re having a production predominantly with people of color about someone like Malcolm X, our communities of color. It’s so important to bring the artist down to these communities to represent what’s here,” Murray said.
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Murray hopes the students and the audience take away more than just singing tips.
And Conyers has a message for those watching.
“Black music, Black art is here to stay and that, you know, opera singers come in all shapes and sizes and that I’m just excited and happy to be here and just to give back,” Conyers said.