Lily Rabe has returned to Broadway, marking a significant moment in her impressive acting career with a highly anticipated role in Jon Robin Baitz’s celebrated family drama, *Other Desert Cities*. The actress, renowned for her captivating performances over the past two decades, expressed her delight at finally taking on the part of Brooke Wyeth, a troubled writer whose memoir threatens to fracture her family. This revival of the play, which first garnered acclaim in 2011, has a star-studded cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ed Harris, Allison Janney, and Joe Keery.
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Rabe’s return to Broadway is particularly meaningful for her. “I loved this play so much when I saw it that I’ve always wanted to play this part,” she shared during the opening night on 18 October. Being part of such an ensemble cast has added to her excitement, which she described as a “real dream” come true. She reflected on her feeling of reconnecting with the Broadway community, emphasising the honour she feels in being involved in this production.
The character of Brooke Wyeth is complex and emotionally demanding, traits that have long inspired Rabe in her theatrical journey. As she steps into Brooke’s world, Rabe relishes the opportunity to explore the intricacies of human emotions. The revival, directed by Tony Award winner John Benjamin Hickey, launched at the Hudson Theatre after previews began on 29 September and is set to run until 17 January 2027.
Originally produced Off-Broadway before its Broadway debut, *Other Desert Cities* investigates themes of family loyalty and the politically charged atmosphere of contemporary America. The play was notably a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and garnered multiple Tony nominations, winning one during its original run. Rabe remarked on the profound impact of the writing, stating, “This writing means so much to me… it’s a privilege to get to say these words every night.”
The relevance of *Other Desert Cities* has remained intact over the years. Rabe hopes that audiences will find personal connections within its narrative, particularly in how political tensions weave into family dynamics. She emphasised the layered nature of the story, asserting there is something relatable for everyone, whether they approach it from a personal or political standpoint.
For those new to the play, Rabe offered a tantalising hint: surprises await. She noted that even among the most astute theatre-goers, the twists within the narrative have caught many off guard. “I think for anyone who hasn’t seen the play, they will be surprised,” she said, referencing feedback from those who attended previews.
Stage acting has been a staple in Rabe’s career since she made her Broadway debut in *Steel Magnolias* in 2005. Her portrayal of Annelle Dupuy-Desoto earned her a Drama Desk Award nomination, setting the stage for a flourishing career. Notable productions followed, including her celebrated role as Portia opposite Al Pacino in Shakespeare’s *The Merchant of Venice*, which garnered her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress.
Rabe has continuously returned to the stage, demonstrating her enduring passion for live theatre. Most recently, she received praise for her performance as Helena Alving in Ibsen’s *Ghosts*, showcasing her commitment to both classic and contemporary works. Beyond Broadway, Rabe has built a formidable reputation in television, with standout roles in Ryan Murphy’s *American Horror Story* and several acclaimed series and films, including *The Undoing* and *Vice*.
Despite her extensive work in film and television, Rabe finds something uniquely rewarding about theatre. She describes live performances as a constantly evolving process, where the exploration of character and material is ongoing, invigorating both the cast and the audience each night. “You discover things every night,” she explained, underlining why she cherishes the theatre experience.
With her profound connection to storytelling and a talent for breathing life into complex characters, Rabe’s portrayal in *Other Desert Cities* promises to resonate deeply with audiences. Tickets for the revival are now available, offering theatre-goers the chance to witness this remarkable play and its celebrated cast in action. As Rabe steps back into the spotlight, her return to Broadway not only brings her personal aspirations to fruition but also enriches the cultural landscape of contemporary theatre.