A James Dean musical

In this world premiere presented by TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, they meet in a dime store owned by Loretta (Judith Miller) a Southern Baptist widow. They include Mona (Lauren Marcus), Sissy (Stephanie Gibson), Stella Mae (Hayley Lovgren) and Edna Louise (Ashley Cowl).

They’re soon joined by a mysterious stranger driving a Porsche. She reveals herself to be Joanne (Shakina), who 20 years ago was known as Joe, Mona’s husband.

On top of that, Mona has a son (Ellie Van Amerongen) whom she has named Jimmy Dean because she supposedly had a one-night stand with the movie star when he was in the area. She also makes a claim to fame because she was in a crowd scene in “Giant.”

Secrets are revealed and relationships challenged during the reunion.

Director Giovanna Sardelli, who is TheatreWorks’ artistic director, has assembled a talented ensemble cast with each member spotlighted individually or in a group and creating a memorable character.

Although everyone sings well, Shakina’s lyrics can be hard to discern in Dan Gillespie Sells’ country western-style music. It might be helpful to follow the San Francisco Opera’s use of supertitles — even for operas in English.

The book by Ashley Robinson is based on Ed Graczyk’s play, which has had several stage and film iterations.

The artistic team makes noteworthy contributions with musical direction by Jacob Yates, set by Nina Ball, costumes by Alina Bokovikova, lighting by Kurt Landisman and sound by Cliff Caruthers.

TheatreWorks presented a staged reading of the show in its New Works Festival last year.

Running just under two hours with no intermission, “Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean” will continue through July 13 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St., Mountain View.

For tickets and information call (877) 662-8978 or visit theatreworks.org.