The Fabric of Us

The Fabric of Us is an outdoor work exploring what it means to be connected in an ever-divided world.

Featuring playful movement, a large white parachute, and a rich soundscape built from recorded interviews with over 100 people, The Fabric of Us uncovers the moments we meet, the stories we share, and the threads that hold us together.

At its core is a billowing white parachute – hidden at first, then gradually revealed. As it unfolds, it takes on different meanings and messages before being handed out to the audience. Together, we hold it, move with it, breathe with it – ducking under, rising above, running beneath, or resting on its surface.

The sound design is composed from warm, honest and reflective conversations with people across the North East of England. These voices evolve into beats, melodies and textures – local in origin, but internationally resonant in theme.

The Fabric of Us reminds us that some things simply can’t be done alone – like lifting a parachute, or building a community. It leaves audiences feeling uplifted and connected through the quiet power of moving together.

Co-creators + Performers: Lizzie Klotz, Luca Rutherford

Collaborator + Performer: Ziza Patrick

Designer: Bethany Wells

Sound Designer: Jeremy Bradfield

Rehearsal Director: Anthony Lo-Giudice

Co-Producer: Aaron Bowman

Photographer: Amelia Read

Videographer: Alex Ayre

20 minutes, 2025

With thanks to everyone for their generosity in taking part and sharing conversations with us - from Stockton Baptist Church, St Thérèse of Lisieux Catholic Primary School, Northern School of Art, Northumbria University, Taste of Africa, We Are TS18, ARC Stockton, and Emily Wratten.

The Fabric of Us is commissioned by SIRF and TeesDance, using public funding by Arts Council England.