Michael English
Founder & Managing Director
Producer-Director-Writer
Michael spent 35 years producing acclaimed documentaries and series for Public Television, earning 24 Emmy Awards along the way.
His lifelong love of history shapes every story he tells.
A devoted genealogist for over 50 years, he’s helped families uncover the details that make their stories unique.
Through Family Tree Films, he brings those histories to life with care and craft.
Debra Halprin
Creative Director
Debra Halprin is an award-winning water media artist and entrepreneur with more than 40 years of experience in the arts.
Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to beauty, storytelling, and creative expression.
As Creative Director at Family Tree Films, she shapes the visual heart of every project.
Debra’s artistic vision brings warmth, elegance, and emotional clarity to the stories we preserve.
Claire English
Communication & Social Media Director
Claire English is the Social Media and Communications Director for Family Tree Films, where she brings a sharp instinct for storytelling and a natural fluency with the digital world. She has a talent for finding the right angle, the right moment, and the right voice to connect with audiences across platforms. Claire leads our online presence with creativity and clarity, making sure the stories we tell reach the people who need to hear them. Her work helps shape the public face of Family Tree Films every single day.
Sarah Leisawitz
Project Manager
Sarah Leisawitz is the Project Manager for Family Tree Films, where her natural precision and steady focus keep every production moving seamlessly. She has an intuitive feel for organizing complex creative work, and her attention to detail ensures that nothing ever slips through the cracks. In an industry where small things make a big difference, Sarah excels at keeping schedules tight, communication clear, and projects on track. Her calm, capable presence is a cornerstone of our production process.
