History of Other Desert Cities in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 26, 2026

Other Desert Cities, a play by Jon Robin Baitz, explores the complexities of family dynamics and political divides. Premiering Off-Broadway in 2011 before transferring to Broadway later that year, the play delves into a wealthy family's secrets as they clash over differing political ideologies. The narrative centers on a daughter who unveils a memoir exposing a sensitive family matter. This revelation forces the family to confront uncomfortable truths and question their perceptions of the past. A finalist for the 2012 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the play highlights the challenges of reconciling personal beliefs with familial loyalties.

2004: Play's Setting

In 2004, the events of the play take place around Christmas Eve, as the Wyeth family gathers in Palm Springs, California.

August 2010: Staged Reading at Ojai Playwrights Conference

In August 2010, the play, originally titled Love and Mercy, was first presented at a staged reading at the Ojai Playwrights Conference in California.

January 13, 2011: Off-Broadway Premiere at Lincoln Center Theater

On January 13, 2011, Other Desert Cities premiered Off-Broadway at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center Theater, in a limited engagement run. The production starred Stockard Channing, Linda Lavin, Stacy Keach, Thomas Sadoski and Elizabeth Marvel. It was named Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play by the Outer Critics Circle.

January 2011: Off-Broadway Premiere

In January 2011, Other Desert Cities premiered Off-Broadway. This marked the beginning of the play's public performances.

November 3, 2011: Broadway Transfer

On November 3, 2011, the play transferred to Broadway at the Booth Theatre, with Judith Light replacing Lavin and Rachel Griffiths replacing Marvel. The production received five nominations at the 66th Tony Awards, including for Best Play, Best Actress in a Play (Stockard Channing), Best Featured Actress in a Play (Judith Light), Best Scenic Design (John Lee Beatty), and Best Lighting Design (Kenneth Posner). Judith Light won for Best Featured Actress in a Play.