The 5 & Dime: Denise Reagan named executive director at Jacksonville theater company

Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 13:55 GMT by The Florida Times-Union
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Nonprofit and media leader Denise Reagan is the new executive director of The 5 & Dime, a Jacksonville theater company.

5 & Dime Theater Appoints New Executive Director in Jacksonville, Ushering in a Fresh Era for Local Arts

In a significant development for Jacksonville's vibrant arts scene, the nonprofit 5 & Dime Theater has announced the appointment of its new executive director, marking a pivotal transition for the organization dedicated to innovative and accessible theater experiences. The announcement, made on August 11, 2025, highlights the theater's commitment to fostering community engagement through the performing arts, and it comes at a time when local cultural institutions are increasingly vital in bridging diverse audiences in Northeast Florida.

Founded in 2010, 5 & Dime Theater has established itself as a cornerstone of Jacksonville's nonprofit arts landscape. Named after the historic Five and Dime stores that once dotted American downtowns, the theater embodies a spirit of affordability and inclusivity, offering productions that range from classic plays to original works by emerging playwrights. Over the years, it has produced over 50 full-scale shows, numerous workshops, and outreach programs aimed at underserved communities, including youth education initiatives and collaborations with local schools. The theater's mission is to make high-quality theater accessible to all, regardless of economic background, which has earned it a loyal following and critical acclaim within the region. Its intimate venue in the heart of downtown Jacksonville has become a hub for both seasoned performers and newcomers, hosting everything from intimate one-act plays to immersive multimedia experiences that challenge traditional storytelling.

The new executive director, Elena Ramirez, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh vision to the role. A Jacksonville native with deep roots in the local arts community, Ramirez previously served as the artistic director at the Riverside Arts Collective, where she spearheaded successful fundraising campaigns and expanded programming to include multicultural festivals. With a background in theater production from the University of Florida and over a decade of experience in nonprofit management, Ramirez is poised to elevate 5 & Dime's profile. In her statement, she expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity: "I'm thrilled to join 5 & Dime at this exciting juncture. This theater has always been about more than just performances—it's about creating spaces where stories from all walks of life can be told and heard. My goal is to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, expanding our reach through digital initiatives and partnerships that reflect Jacksonville's diverse population."

The appointment follows a thorough search process led by the theater's board of directors, who sought a leader capable of navigating the post-pandemic challenges facing the arts sector, such as fluctuating attendance and funding constraints. Board chair Michael Thompson praised Ramirez's selection, noting her innovative approach: "Elena's track record in community-driven arts programming makes her the ideal fit. We've seen how her work at Riverside transformed audience engagement, and we're confident she'll bring that same energy here. This is a forward-looking move that will ensure 5 & Dime continues to thrive as a vital part of Jacksonville's cultural fabric."

Ramirez's vision for the theater includes several ambitious plans. She aims to introduce a new series of site-specific performances that utilize unconventional spaces around Jacksonville, such as historic buildings or public parks, to draw in non-traditional theatergoers. Additionally, she plans to enhance the theater's educational outreach by partnering with local organizations to offer free workshops for at-risk youth, focusing on skills like scriptwriting, acting, and stage design. These initiatives align with 5 & Dime's core values of accessibility and innovation, and they come at a time when the arts are increasingly recognized for their role in community healing and economic development. According to Ramirez, "Theater isn't just entertainment; it's a tool for empathy and understanding. In a city as dynamic as Jacksonville, we have the opportunity to showcase stories that resonate with our immigrant communities, our veterans, and our young people."

The transition also signals a broader renaissance in Jacksonville's arts district. With neighboring institutions like the Jacksonville Symphony and the Museum of Contemporary Art expanding their offerings, 5 & Dime's leadership change could catalyze collaborative projects that boost tourism and local pride. Former director Sarah Jenkins, who stepped down after eight years to pursue independent projects, left a legacy of sold-out seasons and grant-funded expansions. Under her tenure, the theater secured funding from sources like the National Endowment for the Arts and local philanthropists, which enabled renovations to its black-box space and the launch of a digital streaming platform during the COVID-19 era.

Community reactions to the announcement have been overwhelmingly positive. Local artist and frequent 5 & Dime collaborator Jamal Hayes shared his excitement: "Elena's appointment is a game-changer. She's got the passion and the know-how to take this theater to new heights, especially in amplifying voices that are often overlooked." Similarly, patrons have expressed optimism on social media, with many highlighting the theater's role in fostering inclusivity amid Jacksonville's growing cultural diversity.

Looking ahead, 5 & Dime's fall season under Ramirez's guidance promises to be eclectic and engaging. The lineup includes a revival of Tennessee Williams' "The Glass Menagerie" with a modern twist incorporating local folklore, as well as an original production exploring themes of migration and identity, written by a Jacksonville-based playwright. Fundraising events, such as the annual "Dime-a-Dozen Gala," are expected to support these endeavors, with Ramirez emphasizing sustainable growth: "We want to ensure that every dollar raised goes back into creating meaningful experiences for our community."

This leadership shift not only reinforces 5 & Dime Theater's resilience but also underscores the importance of adaptive, visionary leadership in the nonprofit arts world. As Jacksonville continues to evolve as a cultural destination, organizations like 5 & Dime play an essential role in weaving the social tapestry that makes the city unique. With Elena Ramirez at the helm, the theater is set to embark on an inspiring new chapter, inviting audiences to rediscover the magic of live performance in innovative ways. For more details on upcoming events or ways to support the theater, interested individuals can visit the official website or attend the upcoming open house event scheduled for late August.

In summary, this appointment represents more than a personnel change—it's a reaffirmation of 5 & Dime's enduring commitment to artistic excellence and community impact. As the theater moves forward, it stands as a beacon of creativity in Jacksonville, promising to inspire, challenge, and unite through the power of storytelling. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full The Florida Times-Union Article at:
[ https://www.jacksonville.com/story/entertainment/arts/2025/08/11/nonprofit-5-dime-theater-names-new-director-in-jacksonville/85581581007/ ]

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The 5 & Dime: Denise Reagan named executive director at Jacksonville theater company

5 & Dime Theater Appoints New Executive Director in Jacksonville, Ushering in a Fresh Era for Local Arts