The Yellowroot: A Juke Joint Cabaret

Created by CCA Artist in Residence Ashli St. Armant, The Yellowroot is an original musical that draws on extensive research to reimagine Black American folklore through jazz, blues, and soul. After a three-year residency, this production continues Ashli’s collaboration with CCA, following NORTH: The Musical, and is co-commissioned by CCA and UC San Diego ArtPower, emphasizing our support for innovative artists and projects.
Set deep in the bayou during a stormy summer night, the juke joint comes alive.
Part concert, part theatrical storytelling, and part community gathering, The Yellowroot: A Juke Joint Cabaret weaves Black American folklore, legends, and history into original “story songs” rooted in jazz, blues, and gospel.
Ashli performs as “Honey Biscuits,” alongside a national ensemble of jazz musicians who also serve as characters, narrating stories from mythic figures like Annie Christmas and Mami Wata to the true tale of Henry “Box” Brown.
Through call-and-response, live music, and the vibrant atmosphere of the juke joint, the audience is invited into the experience. Come through the back door and join the gathering.
A storm is coming.