Casting change for Cookin' at the Cookery

Due to an unexpected scheduling conflict that arose, the role of "Older Alberta" will now be played by two actresses who have done this role previously. We are grateful they were available.

The role of "Older Alberta" will be portrayed by Ernestine Jackson for the first two weeks.

CLICK HERE to read the biography of Ms. Jackson>

Jackie Richardson will assume the role beginning February 7th.

Born in Pittsburg, PA, Jackie moved to Toronto when she was very young. She began her career at the age of 7 singing in her church choir. She has acted in film, television and theater with roles in No! No! Nanette, Anything Goes, Hello Dolly! and Raisin in the Sun. She became well known for her part in Ain't Misbehavin', which earned her a Dora Award.

She has toured across Canada and the world performing with renowned artists such as Ray Charles, Anne Murray, Dr. John and Celine Dion to name a few. In 2003, Jackie's debut CD, "A Woman's View Through a Child's Eye" was released. The album is an experience of soul, a profoundly personal synthesis of the remarkable gospel, blues and jazz woman she has embodied on stage and screen.

Ms. Richardson is the 2004 Dora Mavor Moore Winner for Best Female Principal Role in Cookin' at the Cookery. She has received Gemini, Dora, Juno, Jessie, Betty, Toronto Blues Society and NAACP Award nominations.