Patti LuPone Returns to Broadway alongside Mia Farrow, Despite Prior Departure from Actors Union

Broadway fans, rejoice! Patti LuPone is making her triumphant return to the stage this fall, alongside the iconic Mia Farrow. Despite her highly-publicized departure from the actors union, LuPone will be gracing the Booth Theatre in Jen Silverman’s new play, “The Roommate,” directed by Jack O’Brien.

It’s been over a decade since LuPone last appeared on Broadway, and her return is certainly causing a stir among theater enthusiasts. But what’s even more intriguing is the story behind her comeback. In July 2022, LuPone made headlines when she publicly declared her departure from Actors’ Equity, the professional actors union required for Broadway and other top-tier theaters. In a tweet, now known as X, she announced her decision, leaving fans and critics wondering how she would be able to take on such a prominent role without her union card.

Enter the “right to work” argument. The production of “The Roommate” plans to make a case on behalf of LuPone, arguing that she should be allowed to work without being a member of the union. However, this won’t be an easy feat since New York does not have any “right to work” laws like other states such as Kentucky. In New York, employers have the right to require union membership for certain jobs. It remains to be seen how the production will navigate this issue, but one thing is for sure – LuPone’s return is highly anticipated.

“The Roommate” itself is not a newcomer to the theater scene. The play has been around for about nine years and had its world premiere during the Humana Festival of New American Plays in 2015. Set in Iowa, the story revolves around a divorcee who takes in a lodger from the Bronx. With LuPone and Farrow taking on these roles, audiences can expect a whole lot of personality and fireworks on stage.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. Next season, Broadway fans will be treated to not one, not two, but three Mama Roses from “Gypsy.” Alongside LuPone in “The Roommate,” Bernadette Peters will be appearing in the Stephen Sondheim revue “Old Friends” later in the spring. And if that’s not enough, the incomparable Audra McDonald will star in a new revival of “Gypsy.” It truly is a dream come true for fans of Broadway’s great divas.

As the fall approaches, anticipation continues to build for Patti LuPone’s return to Broadway. With her undeniable talent and fierce personality, there’s no doubt that she will captivate audiences once again. So mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable season of theater magic. Broadway is about to shine brighter than ever before.