The life of Marilyn Monroe will be put in the spotlight next month when the Long Beach Opera (LBO) presents “Marilyn Forever.”

This will be the first time the opera, written by Gavin Bryars, will be performed in the U.S., according to a statement from LBO.

The show highlights moments from the life of the woman known as Marilyn Monroe in the spotlight and Norma Jeane privately.

In order to depict these two personas accurately, Stage Director Andreas Mitisek said in a statement that he cast two women to portray Monroe and Jeane.

The opera focuses on Monroe’s relationships and marriages, particularly with Arthur Miller, and her death.

“Of her three marriages, Monroe’s most interesting relationship was with Arthur Miller,” Bryars said in a statement. “That was the one that unleashed her intellectual capacity. The opera pays more attention to that – and to her death – than to anything else.”

It also features jazz music performed by an onstage jazz trio and pit orchestra, signifying Monroe’s fondness of popular film and music.

“The opera places her in an environment which relates to the music of her time,” Bryars said, adding that he will play the double bass onstage on opening night on March 21.

“Marilyn Forever” will be performed March 21 to March 29 at the Warner Grand Theatre, located at 478 West Sixth Street in San Pedro. Ticket prices range from $29 to $160, with student tickets available for $15 at any time with valid student ID.

For more information about the performance, as well as tickets and showtimes, click here.