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WITH RUTABEGGA PRODUCTIONS
about
THE SHOW
Ain’t No Mama Like Grandma is a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering love, resilience, and faith of grandmothers everywhere.
Hattie Mae Townsend-Harrison, a 56-year-old mother of three and grandmother of one, has lived a quiet, steadfast Christian life. Married at 18 to her high school sweetheart, Roger, her world changed forever when she lost him to a sudden heart attack at the age of 45. Through the grief,
Hattie never faltered. Her faith in God and her strength carried her family forward.
Now, with her two oldest children grown and gone, her middle daughter, Sandra, remains a constant challenge. Brilliant but vulnerable, Sandra strayed from her upbringing, chasing a fast-paced life of partying and poor choices. Her battles with addiction and instability led her to drift in and out of Hattie’s home until one day, she left her 6-month-old son in her mother’s care and never returned.
Seven years later, Hattie is raising her grandson on her own. Life’s hardships and sacrifices are etched on her face, but her heart remains full. This moving story unfolds as Hattie’s faith, grit, and unconditional love are tested once more, proving that when life gets hard, there truly ain’t no mama like grandma.
Written & Directed by: Marion Jacobs Burks
Published: August 2025
Opening Night: Nov. 1, 2025
Our
STELLAR CAST
Meet our star studded cast.
Sandra Wilson
Darius Grant
Cherbritta Dennis
Dell Jacobs Jordon
Jessica Jackson Brooks
Terry Butler
Tammara Lee
Chesani Howard
Tiffany Griffin
Dimples Williams
Dwight Williams
Marion Jacobs Burks
SANDRA WILSON
Sandra Wilson is a seasoned actress with a deep passion for the stage. Born and raised in Louisiana, she brings a wealth of Southern charm to her performances. With over 30 years of marriage under her belt, Sandra is a proud mother of two children—a daughter, 23, and a son, 16—and delights in her role as a grandmother to her one-year-old grandchild. In 2021, Sandra relocated to Dallas, Texas, with her family, where she is embracing the vibrant cultural scene and enjoying life to the fullest. When she's not gracing the stage, Sandra can be found worshiping at her local church, eagerly anticipating the blessings that await her family.
DARIUS GRANT
Darius Grant, a devoted lover of the arts, resides in Dallas, TX, where he revels in the creative energy of the city. Father to two sons, Darius's journey in acting began in high school and was reignited in 2021 when he joined forces with Rutabegga Productions. Blessed to be a part of this dynamic production, Darius eagerly anticipates the unfolding of God's plan for the team. Originally hailing from Chicago, Darius brings a rich blend of experiences as a songwriter, musician, and actor to the stage. His passion for music and the joy of bringing smiles to countless faces fuel his creative endeavors.
JESSICA JACKSON BROOKS
Jessica Jackson Brooks, a prolific actress born in Rockwall, TX, delivers outstanding performances with every show. Raised in Terrell, TX, Jessica graduated from Terrell High School in 1989 and went on to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Tyler Junior College. Alongside her late husband, Mr. Mark A Brooks, she raised a beautiful family and co-owned Brooks Shining Stars In-Home Childcare for over 25 years. A devoted member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Jessica is actively involved in various ministries and finds joy in singing in the sanctuary choir. Her infectious laughter and love for bringing joy to others led her to Rutabegga Productions Gospel Stage Plays, where she gives all praise, glory, and honor to God. With favorite songs like "Stand" and "He Keeps on Doing Great Things For Me," and a favorite scripture in Psalms 34:8, Jessica's life is a testament to gratitude and faith.
MARION JACOBS BURKS
Marion Jacobs Burks, the founder and principal playwright of Rutabegga Productions, is an acclaimed playwright and actress, honing her craft at the La Brea School of Performing Arts in California. Her journey in stage plays, including memorable roles in productions like "Little Shop of Horrors" and "Bus Stop," ignited the vision for her own company. Marion not only writes, produces, and directs Rutabegga Productions' plays but also stars as its flagship character, Sister Rutabegga. With hits like "My Silent Cry" and "I Married The Right Man For The Wrong Reasons," Marion aims to uplift her community, using her plays as fundraisers for youth groups, scholarship programs, and church events. With every production, Marion hopes to touch hearts and souls with messages of God's enduring love and guidance.
DELL JACOBS JORDON
Dell Jacobs Jordan is a prolific actress whose talent shines brightly through her memorable performances, particularly with Rutabegga Productions, where she captivates audiences with her charm and versatility. With a deep-seated love for theatre and music, Dell infuses each role with passion and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the stage. Her beautiful voice resonates with audiences, adding depth and emotion to every performance she delivers. Dell takes pride in her craft, approaching each role with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to excellence. Beyond her artistic endeavors, she is devoted to spreading God's love and joy, using her platform to inspire and uplift others. Dell's presence on stage is a testament to her unwavering commitment to storytelling and her desire to touch hearts and souls through the transformative power of the performing arts.
CHERBRITTA DENNIS
Cherbritta Dennis is a prolific actress renowned for her captivating performances, particularly with Rutabegga Productions, where her talent shines on stage. With a deep-rooted passion for theatre and music, Cherbritta brings characters to life with authenticity and grace. Beyond the spotlight, she is dedicated to spreading God's love and joy, infusing her roles with messages of hope and inspiration. Cherbritta's journey in acting is a testament to her commitment to touching hearts and souls through the transformative power of storytelling. Her presence on stage resonates with audiences, leaving a lasting impression of warmth and sincerity. As she continues to illuminate the stage with her talent and spirit, Cherbritta remains a beacon of light in the world of performing arts.
TERRY BUTLER
Terry Butler is a member of New Way of Life Church. Her background is in Speech, Drama. & Public Speaking. She formally participated in other church drama productions in the state of Georgia. Her most recent role was a "Spear" in the Resurrection Sunday Easter Play at her church. This is Terry's first performance in Rutabegga Productions. She is looking forward to her upcoming role in "Ain't No Mama Like Grandmama"
TAMMARA LEE
Tammara Lee is a dedicated Code Enforcement Officer with a passion for serving her community and upholding the highest standards of integrity. A proud wife and mother of one, she places great value on family and creating a strong, loving foundation at home. Known for her fun-loving spirit and positive outlook, Tammara brings both professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Guided by her faith, she lives with purpose, compassion, and resilience. She is honored to serve as a role model both personally and professionally.
CHESANI HOWARD
Chesani Howard is a 34-year-old Texas native from the Dallas area. A graduate of TVCC, she enjoys exploring new foods, crafting, and cheerleading. Beyond the stage, she is most proud of encouraging her 12-year-old daughter to think outside the box and pursue her goals without limits.
TIFFANY GRIFFIN
Tiffany Griffin is thrilled to return to the stage with Rutabegga Productions. She made her debut as Linda in God’s Man/Her Lover and has since performed in Hidden Justice, My Silent Cry, and other productions. Outside of acting, Tiffany shares her voice in the church choir at Way of Life Ministries and volunteers as an usher at the AT&T Performing Arts Center, where she has assisted with over 250 shows. Known for her dedication and love of the arts, she brings passion and authenticity to every performance. Tiffany is grateful to Marion and Rutabegga Productions for yet another inspiring opportunity.
DIMPLE WILLIAMS
Dimple Williams is the wife of Pastor Dwight Williams, mother of Dwight Jr. and Melody, and proud grandmother to Ivory, Ezekiel, and a new grandbaby on the way. A graduate of the Arts Magnet High School at Booker T. Washington, she earned a music scholarship to Houston Tillotson College and grew up singing with her sisters, The Ingram Singers. Dimples has ministered on stage and recorded with artists at the local, state, and national levels, and also served as a vocal coach for Guitar Center. Today, she continues to serve alongside her husband at Fresh Wind Fresh Fire Ministries, where he is the senior pastor. Passionate about sharing her gifts, she finds fulfillment in ministering to those in need, conducting choir workshops, and teaching voice lessons to aspiring singers.
DWIGHT WILLIAMS
Pastor Dwight Williams is the senior pastor and visionary leader of Fresh Wind Fresh Fire Ministries. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, he is the fifth child in a family of five and has shared 40 years of marriage with his wife, Dimples Williams. Together, they are the proud parents of two children who now serve as associate pastors in ministry. Guided by a lifelong passion for restoration, reconciliation, and renewal through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, Pastor Williams has dedicated his purpose to emulating the spirit of the New Testament church by meeting the needs of the community. He is grateful to Marion and Rutabegga Productions for the opportunity to share his gifts on stage.
Our
VENDORS
CHECK OUT OUR FEATURED OPENING NIGHT VENDORS
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