Matthew Broderick is to star in the new Irish Repertory Theater production of “Shining City,” which opens in previews in May. The play, which was written by Conor McPherson and explores loneliness in a big city, ran on Broadway in 2006 to critical acclaim and received two Tony nominations.

Mr. Broderick, coming off a lead role in the Broadway comedy “Sylvia,” will play John, a grieving widower. He’ll be joined by Lisa Dwan, Billy Carter and James Russell; Ciaran O’Reilly will direct. In his review for The New York Times in 2006, the chief theater critic, Ben Brantley, called “Shining City” a “quiet, haunting and absolutely glorious new play.”

The production marks not only the first New York revival of “Shining City,” but Irish Rep’s return to its newly renovated theater in Chelsea. (The company produced Mr. McPherson’s “Port Authority” at the DR2 Theater in Union Square two years ago.)

Previews open on May 17; the play opens on June 9 and runs through July 3. Tickets and more information can be found at irishrep.org.