The Importance of Second Chances: On Stage at The 5 & Dime

Ever wonder how hard it is to get and keep a job after prison? Well wonder no more because the talented cast of Clyde’s at The 5 & Dime Theater does a great job showing just how hard it can be for people working to rebuild their lives after involvement with the criminal justice system. On stage for only 3 more nights here in Jacksonville (June 15, 16, 17), don’t miss this wonderful live performance!

The 5 & Dime tells stories that engage, inspire, and challenge audiences, nurturing a rich artistic culture in Jacksonville. The nonprofit theater invited our team at Operation New Hope to the Monday night performance because of our connection with the play’s theme:

Creating the perfect sandwich is the shared quest of the formerly incarcerated kitchen staff of Clyde’s, a truck stop cafe. Even as the shop’s mischievous owner tries to keep them under her thumb, the staffers are given purpose and permission to dream—finding that “sometimes a hero is more than a sandwich” (New York Times). This stirring, masterful play from makes its Northeast Florida premiere at The 5 & Dime!

“The play was sooooo good,” said Tanaine Jenkins after the performance of Clyde’s. “I was able to feel some of the monologues deeply and my hope is that those who are not familiar with what returning citizens go through are now enlightened.” Tanaine is a Ready4Work graduate and now works as the Florida State Organizer for REFORM Alliance. “After 10 years as ‘property’ of the Department of Corrections, I chose not to close the door on that chapter of my life but instead reach back and help those men and women who are coming behind me.” 

Thanks so much to The 5 & Dime Theater for the invitation to our staff and clients. Thank you also for helping to educate our community and celebrating the richness of its diversity through inclusive artistic offerings.

Don’t miss this fantastic performance! Get your tickets today before Clyde’s curtain closes on June 17, 2023.