Maryland Public Television (MPT) is set to premiere “Grandma’s Hands,” a captivating documentary that delves into the powerful connection between food, family, and heritage in Southern Maryland. Directed by Craig Sewell and produced by Fog Moving Pictures, this film takes viewers into the kitchens of three families, showcasing the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Set to air on Saturday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m., “Grandma’s Hands” presents an intimate look into the lives of six Southern Marylanders. The participants prepare their grandmothers’ treasured recipes, sharing the personal stories behind each dish. While each family’s narrative is unique, they all reflect the idea that the kitchen remains the heart of the home, serving as a vital link between the past and present.
The hour-long film will also be available for streaming on mpt.org, pbs.org, and the PBS app starting Sunday, November 24.
Culinary Traditions as a Gateway to the Past
“Grandma’s Hands” offers more than a showcase of treasured recipes; it explores the deep-rooted culinary traditions that have helped shape Southern Maryland’s cultural and agricultural landscape. Through the lens of food, the documentary connects viewers with the region’s history, revealing the ways in which local ingredients, farming, and the Chesapeake Bay influence the dishes that generations of families have prepared.
Director Craig Sewell explains that food has long been a central part of Maryland’s identity. “Food tells the story of where we come from,” Sewell says. “When people talk about their grandmother’s recipes, they are talking about love, resilience, and survival.”
The film captures this essence by taking viewers into the kitchens of three Southern Maryland families. Each family shares not only the steps to making their beloved recipes but also the stories of their ancestors who originally created these dishes.
Diverse Narratives with a Common Thread
One of the remarkable aspects of “Grandma’s Hands” is its portrayal of diverse Southern Marylanders, who, despite coming from different backgrounds, all share a love for family and food. The participants’ stories reflect themes of joy, struggle, and perseverance, showing how culinary traditions have transcended time and space to remain an essential part of family life.
Whether it’s an old family recipe for crab cakes, collard greens, or Chesapeake oyster stew, the documentary highlights the richness of Southern Maryland’s food heritage. The participants’ stories reveal the ways in which their family recipes have adapted to changing times while preserving the flavors and techniques of the past.
“This documentary brings to life the important role food plays in our sense of home and identity,” Sewell notes. “It’s not just about ingredients. It’s about the love and care that goes into preparing a meal and the memories it creates.”
Premiering on Maryland Public Television
The premiere of “Grandma’s Hands” on MPT marks the first time the documentary will be available for public viewing. In addition to the November 23 television broadcast, the film can be streamed on multiple platforms, including mpt.org, pbs.org, and the PBS app, starting on November 24.
“Grandma’s Hands” was produced with the support of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area, an organization committed to preserving the history, culture, and natural beauty of Southern Maryland. The film represents an important effort to document the region’s food traditions and their lasting impact on family life and community.
MPT encourages viewers to tune in for the November 23 premiere to experience this heartfelt documentary. “Grandma’s Hands” promises to offer a fresh perspective on Southern Maryland’s rich history and culture, told through the universal language of food.
