When Trent brings Felix home to New Orleans to meet his father and homophobic grandfather, the family’s demons come slithering into the light. Watchful ghosts, sinister hustlers, and a myriad of parasites lead Felix on a Southern Gothic journey to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Tom Jacobson’s galvanic drama HOUSE OF THE RISING SON, boasts some of his trademark qualities, such as shrewd scientific metaphors and astute ruminations on social issues. Those heady ideas are embellished here with the sublime pleasures of a well-spun yarn chock-full of surprises. Equal parts ghost story and unorthodox family drama, this gripping play is further blessed with an unmistakable whiff of Tennessee Williams-style lyricism. Beginning in contemporary L A, the story quickly shifts to New Orleans, where Jacobson capitalizes on the city’s eternal aura of mystery and occultism … Expect the unexpected, as the intricate narrative incisively explores issues of family dynamics and gay relationships in startlingly fresh ways. Ingeniously pondering how nature balances the good and bad effects of parasitic organisms, Jacobson forges profound reflections on symbiotic human relationships. The first act ends with a humdinger of a surprise that sets the stage for a mind-blowing second act, full of humor, poignancy, suspense, and food for thought. Possibly Jacobson’s finest work to date, this sinfully rich concoction is the theatrical equivalent of a multicourse gourmet meal. -Les Spindle, Backstage .. . the prolific Jacobson at his witty yet heartfelt best … -F Kathleen Foley, Los Angeles Times .. . the gay community, publicly uncloseted for barely fifty years, is late in bringing its paranormal yarns to the campfire. Tom Jacobson takes a giant step forward with his engrossing, provocative HOUSE OF THE RISING SON … -Bob Verini, Variety