Newnan Community Theatre Company Presents COME BACK TO THE FIVE AND DIME JIMMY DEAN, JIMMY DEAN 8/21-30

In the early 1950s there was a charismatic and handsome actor who lit up the screen. His name was James Dean. From starring roles in "Rebel Without a Cause," "East of Eden," and "Giant", he was quite famous and popular. He reached legendary status when, at the age of 24, he was killed in a car crash in California.

The next show on Newnan Community Theatre Company's main stage is "Come Back to the Five and Dime Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean" by Ed Graczyk. The comedy/drama, set in 1975, brings together a reunion of the "Disciples of James Dean" a fan club for the teen idol.

The women returning for the reunion include Mona (played by Terri Morrison) who claims she had James Dean's love child; Sissy (Judie Hardin), a wise-cracking truck stop worker; Stella May (Rebecca Lanyi) who married into money; and the sweet, kind Edna Louise (Tami Savage). Things really start moving when a stranger (Marsha Elzey) arrives in the five and dime with secrets to reveal.

The story slides back to the eventful night of James Dean's death, September 30, 1955 when the women were teens. The teens are portrayed by Jessica Kiel (Mona), Kristin Owens (Sissy), Kelsey Gentry (Stella May) and Jordan Owens (Edna Louise)

Supporting actors include Sharon Somolik and Levi Gentry, playing the five and dime manager and the only male member of the "Disciples".

The play is being directed by NCTC's Artistic Director, Darren Mathews. Bert Lyons is the Stage Manager and Susan Patterson is the Producer.

Robert Altman directed the film version of the play and also directed it on Broadway with the same cast. The original cast was Sandy Dennis, Karen Black, Cher, and Kathy Bates.

Show dates for "Come Back to the Five and Dime Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean" are August 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, and 30. The show is part of their 2009 season. Show times are 8 pm on Friday and Saturday evenings and 2:30 on Sundays. Tickets are $15 for adult, $12 for students and seniors, and $10 for children. Since seating is limited, reservations or pre-purchase of tickets is highly recommended. Tickets may be purchased via the theatre's website, newnantheatre.org. To make a reservation, email info@newnantheatre.org or call the theatre at (770) 683-6282. Due to language and adult situations, this show is rated R.

Newnan Community Theatre Company is a 100% all-volunteer, non-profit organization. The theatre has been providing live entertainment in downtown Newnan for over 30 years. They are located at 24 1st Avenue, next to the 1st Avenue park. The next show at NCTC is The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, which is being directed by Lamar Payne, and will be on the main stage in September.

Photo: The teen members of "Come Back to the Five and Dime Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean's" fan club, The Disciples of James Dean. Left to right: Joe (Levi Gentry), Mona (Jessica Kiel), Sissy (Kristin Owens), Edna (Jordan Owens), and Stella (Kelsey Gentry).

Photo Credit: Rick Olsen

 

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