Family Tree

World Premiere - Recommended Age 14+ | The play deals with non-consensual medical experiments on Black women and children, discussion of cancer, strong language

This performance has taken place in the past

Family Tree is a beautifully poetic drama about race, health, the environment, and the incredible legacy of one of the most influential Black women of modern times. Fearlessly honest, hilarious, and ultimately transformative, this award-winning play is both a remembrance and a celebration.

Henrietta Lacks is one of most remarkable people in medical history. Her cells form the basis of the most important medical research and breakthroughs happening today, from cancer to HIV to COVID. But Henrietta never knew any of this. Her cells were taken without her or her family’s knowledge or permission.

Henrietta was a Black woman: she is not the only one whose body has been exploited by the medical establishment.  Denied her place in history, now is the time for Henrietta’s incredible legacy to undergo a transformation … to blossom and grow into something new and wonderful.

With Mofetoluwa Akande, Keziah Joseph, Aminita Francis, Aimee Powell and Alistair Hall

‘Outspoken and magical … informs us with its history and move us with its personal stories.’ ***** British Theatre Guide

Playwright MOJISOLA ADEBAYO
Director MATTHEW XIA
Set & Costume Designer SIMON KENNY
Lighting Designer SIMISOLA MAJEKODUNMI
Composer & Sound Designer FRANCESCA AMEWUDAH-RIVERS
Movement Director DIANE ALISON-MITCHELL
Associate Director AMELIA THORNBER
Costume Supervisor MAYBELLE LAYE
Production Dramatherapist WABRIYA KING
Tour Casting Advisor MATILDA JAMES CDG
Original Casting Advisor SOPHIE PARROTT CDG

Production Manager MATT LEDBURY
Company Stage Manager CASSIE ADEY
Deputy Stage Manager ELIOTT SHEPPARD
Lighting Associate TOM LIGHTBODY
Sound Associate CLIVE MELDRUM

Family Tree contains themes that some people may find difficult. For content warnings, help and support information download the Family Tree AFTERCARE pack.

Family Tree was commissioned by ATC and Young Vic Theatre, and produced as a work-in-development by ATC and Greenwich and Docklands International Festival in August 2021.

No performances are currently available.
Family Tree