Ep 2. Geoffrey Returns

In Slings & Arrows season 1 episode 2 titled “Geoffrey Returns,” the New Burbage Festival prepares for the upcoming production of Hamlet while a key member of the company returns to his old stomping grounds.

Geoffrey Tennant (Paul Gross), the former artistic director of the festival, returns to New Burbage after spending some time in a mental institution following a public breakdown during a production of Hamlet. He is greeted with mixed reactions from the staff who are still reeling from his abrupt departure and angry outburst that led to his hospitalization. Some are excited to see him back, while others are nervous about his potential impact on the upcoming Hamlet production.

Meanwhile, the new artistic director, Oliver Welles (Stephen Ouimette), deals with the stress of putting on a successful show. He butts heads with the play's lead actor, Jack Crew (Luke Kirby), who is having trouble connecting with the character of Hamlet. Oliver brings in a famous director, Darren Nichols (Don McKellar), to work with Jack on his performance, but the collaboration proves to be difficult and contentious.

Geoffrey struggles to adjust to life outside of the institution and begins doubting his own sanity when he starts seeing the ghost of Oliver's predecessor, the late artistic director. He tries to come to terms with his inner demons and reconcile with the people he left behind, including his former flame, Ellen Fanshaw (Martha Burns), who is now in a relationship with Oliver.

As the production of Hamlet approaches, tensions rise and the cast and crew are tested. Will Geoffrey be able to reclaim his artistic vision and contribute to the production, or will his return cause more chaos for the festival?

In “Geoffrey Returns,” Slings & Arrows continues to explore the inner workings of the theater world while examining the personal struggles of its characters. The episode is filled with witty dialogue, poignant moments, and entertaining performances. It sets the stage for the rest of the season, promising more drama and comedy to come.