‘Other Desert Cities’ is a story of mental illness, secrets, betrayal, family feuds, and Republicans.

Written by Jon Robin Baitz, this Tony Award-nominated, direct-from-Broadway drama is staged flawlessly, with the warm lighting and impressively-detailed set depicting the atmosphere of a sunny, yet abrasive family-filled Christmas. The ferocious temper and Republican ideals of Matriarch Polly are wonderfully juxtaposed by Rebecca Davis’ portrayal of depressed, fragile Brooke, while Robert Coleby’s restrained, subtle acting technique adds an element of stoicism to the otherwise chaotic family dynamic. This is a play that should not be missed.

‘Other Desert Cities’ is at the Playhouse, QPAC until September 1.