Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Allison Janney Shine in Revived 'Other Desert Cities' Despite Dramatic Shortcomings

The Broadway revival of Jon Robin Baitz's drama "Other Desert Cities," featuring a cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Allison Janney, has opened at the Hudson Theatre. The production, directed by John Benjamin Hickey, centers on the complex dynamics of the affluent Wyeth family in Palm Springs during Christmas.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus makes her Broadway debut as Polly Wyeth, the matriarch of the family and a former Hollywood screenwriter. Her character faces a potential crisis when her free-spirited writer daughter, Brooke (Lily Rabe), arrives with galleys of her new memoir. The book threatens to expose the family's long-held secrets and past traumas, including the suicide of Brooke and Trip's brother, Henry, decades earlier.

"Other Desert Cities" explores themes of family, memory, and the consequences of buried truths. The play, set in 2004, contrasts the New York sensibilities of Brooke with the California lifestyle of her Republican parents, who were once friends with Ronald and Nancy Reagan. The family's carefully constructed facade is challenged by Brooke's memoir, which delves into the events surrounding Henry's extremist involvement and subsequent death.

The production has been noted for its strong performances, particularly from Louis-Dreyfus, who brings her comedic timing to the demanding role of Polly. Allison Janney plays Aunt Silda, Polly's sister and a recovering alcoholic, who provides much of the play's early humor with her sharp wit. Ed Harris portrays Lyman Wyeth, Polly's husband and a former actor, who embodies a more passive demeanor. Joe Keery, known for his role in "Stranger Things," makes a notable Broadway debut as Trip Wyeth, the couple's son.

While the play offers numerous laughs and showcases the talents of its ensemble cast, the review suggests that the production struggles to fully capitalize on the dramatic weight of its revelations. The early scenes are marked by witty banter, but as the play progresses and the deeper family conflicts emerge, the direction and performances are described as sometimes disjointed. Lily Rabe's intense portrayal of Brooke is noted as a standout, though at times it contrasts with the more quippy tones of other characters.

Joe Keery's performance as Trip Wyeth, particularly a second-act monologue where he expresses his feelings about his family, received significant applause, highlighting his impact in the production. Despite the play's compelling script and the actors' efforts, the revival is perceived as lacking the dramatic bite and cohesive family dynamic that could elevate its impact.