Ep 2. Treading the Boards

Tom Chadwick continues his journey of self-discovery in the second episode of Family Tree season 1, titled "Treading the Boards." In this intriguing installment, Tom delves deeper into his family's history, exploring the world of theater, and unearthing more surprising connections along the way.

As the episode begins, Tom is visited by his sister Bea, who reveals that their father, Keith, has decided to donate the family home to charity. Tom, feeling a sense of loss and displacement, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about his family's past and, possibly, find a new sense of belonging.

Tom's journey takes him to the renowned British Theatre Archive, where he meets Tony, an enthusiastic archivist who is eager to help him explore his family's theatrical roots. Guiding him through a treasure trove of memorabilia and vintage programs, Tony introduces Tom to the fascinating world of his ancestors, revealing surprising connections to the world of theater and performance.

Driven by his desire to understand his family's past, Tom delves into the lives of his great uncle Rupert, a long-forgotten actor, and his grandmother Lillian, an actress from the early 20th century. Through old photographs, newspaper clippings, and correspondence, Tom uncovers a rich tapestry of theatrical history, discovering his family's intimate involvement in the vibrant theater scene of the past.

As Tom immerses himself in the stories of his ancestors, he begins to understand their passions, struggles, and the sacrifices they made for their craft. Through their experiences, he gains a newfound appreciation for the world of acting and the power of storytelling. The lines between past and present blur as Tom discovers parallel themes in his own life and the lives of his theatrical forebears.

Along his journey, Tom encounters a colorful cast of characters who help him piece together the puzzle of his family's theatrical legacy. He meets Mr. Pfister, a wise old puppeteer whose intricate marionettes offer a unique perspective on performance and identity. He also crosses paths with Keith's old friend and fellow actor, Neville St. Aubrey, whose tales of the stage add another layer to Tom's understanding of his family's theatrical lineage.

As Tom immerses himself deeper into the world of acting, he finds himself exploring the possibilities of pursuing the craft himself. He attends a local community theater audition, but his lack of experience and nerves get the better of him, leaving him uncertain about the path he should take. Tom's journey becomes not only about discovering his family's history but also about finding his own place in the world and embracing his own passions and talents.

In "Treading the Boards," the second episode of Family Tree season 1, Tom Chadwick's exploration of his family's past takes him on a captivating journey into the world of theater. Through the fascinating stories of his ancestors, Tom discovers the transformative power of acting, unearths surprising connections, and begins to forge his own path. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and the enduring legacy of artistic expression.