Super Short Summary

Other Desert Cities by Jon Robin Baitz is a 2011 play about Lyman and Polly Wyeth, aging Republicans in Palm Springs, whose daughter, Brooke, a liberal writer, threatens to reveal a disturbing family secret in her upcoming memoir. Set during Christmas 2004, the family tensions peak when Brooke unveils her intention to publish a book about her brother Henry, whose past involvement in radical activities and subsequent death are central to the family’s unresolved conflicts. The play explores themes of political and generational divides, mental health, and the complexities of family loyalty. Sensitive topics include radical political movements and suicide.