Millennial Notes

Shakina’s Lyrics Evoke Memories for ‘Disciples of James Dean’ 

by Isa S. Chu

At TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, “Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean,” has been reimagined as a musical. In a 50s Five-and-Dime store in McCarthy, Texas, the dusty aisles become a stage for women’s memories and regrets. Across two decades, we share their aches and fears.

What begins as a reunion of the “Disciples of James Dean” transforms into a reckoning with personal truths and lies that have lingered for decades.

Ed Gracyzk’s 1976 play shows what happened when James Dean and the Hollywood cast and crew of “Giant” came to film in 1955. Dean died nearby in a terrible car accident, and the women are reuniting on the 20th Anniversary of his death.

Nina Ball’s nostalgic dime store set design shines with period clutter and detail. Witty Ball brings on swiveling walls, shifting backdrops, and a stunning burst of cinematic rain.

A true ensemble piece, each character’s arc sheds light on mid-century American stories.

Ashley Cowl’s Edna Louise—pregnant with her seventh child—offers one of the show’s most powerful moments, singing in Spanish to reclaim the culture that was taken from her. Her performance is tender, grounded, and defiant, supported with rich vocals.

Hayley Lovgren’s sharp and flashy Stella Mae enters boldly. Her bright, brassy voice proclaims confidence in “Goddamn, I Love Texas!” But we discover that her bravado conceals grief over her infertility.

As conservative Loretta, Judith Miller plays the staunch, self-appointed moral compass of the group. When she tries to impose order and civility, we see she’s in denial about her life and her late husband’s alcoholism.

Joe, played by Ellie Van Amerongen, anchors the show’s emotional core with sensitivity and range. In “Joe’s Song,” he captures the trauma of gender nonconformity in a hostile Texas town. Quick costume and make-up changes—supported skillfully by the stage crew—help to make the performance seamless and striking.

As Joanne, Joe’s grown-up self, Shakina—who wrote the show’s lyrics—offers strength and authenticity. Her return to Texas challenges the town’s narrow-mindedness, offering a nuanced view of gender and identity. Her song “Survival” tells a moving life story in a powerful ballad.

As energetic Sissy, Stephanie Gibson offers a beautifully layered performance. Her liveliness and twangy optimism hide vulnerability about her abandonment and dreams.

As girlish Mona, Lauren Marcus balances charm with heartbreak. In “Hail Mona,” we discover her long-held claim that James Dean fathered her son. But her claim becomes more about protecting herself from shame than seeking truth.

Billed at 95 minutes with no intermission, the show feels longer. A prologue confuses more than it charms. Some musical numbers, while expertly sung and performed, feature the soloist with the cast standing statically.

“Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean” is a lovingly crafted exploration of identity, nostalgia, and chosen family, with strong performances and beautifully detailed design.

While the pacing can feel slow, the emotional depth and complex storytelling offer a quiet, thoughtful experience that lingers.

“Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean: A New Musical”–based on the play by Ed Graczyk, book by Ashley Robinson, music by Dan Gillespie Sells, lyrics by Shakina, directed by Giovanna Sardelli.

Scenic design by Nina Ball, costume design by Alina Bokovikova, lighting by Kurt Landsisman, sound by Cliff Caruthers, co-produced with Broadway & Beyond Theatricals, by TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, Mountain View, California. Info: theatreworks.org – to July 13, 2025.

Cast: Shakina, Lauren Marcus, Stephanie Gibson, Ashley Cowl, Judith Miller, and Ellie Van Amerongen.

Banner photo: Loretta (Judith Miller) & Mona (Lauren Marcus) listen as Sissy (Stephanie Gibson) fantasizes. Photos: Kevin Berne