Donna has created a world teeming with life (quite ironically). The relationships between the women are what makes the piece really sing--and none of it feels shoehorned or forced in any way. It stays true to its era while still being cognizant of modern sensibilities. It's also a fascinating look at historical parallels to our own contemporary collective traumas.

Donna Latham’s Southern Gothic “Yella Jack” powerfully renders an unlikely sisterhood who convert a brothel into a hospital for the indigent. In language that is closer to poetry than prose, and dotted with extraordinary monologues, Latham plumbs medical history, women’s history, class, race, and the traditions of multiple religions in a story about a yellow fever epidemic in Memphis, 1878. Like Shakespeare, Latham employs humor and pathos, and like the Greeks, she structures the play around short scenes and choral-like odes. The result is compelling and unforgettable. A gem for an ensemble of diverse actors. Strongly recommended.

An amazing ensemble piece with diverse and well-developed characters. The language is poetic, symbolic and deeply impactful. Though we are in Memphis 1878 we are cannot help draw similarities to our modern day. Donna writes strong female characters and paints a picture that you can hear through the text. This is a must read.