Threads is a poignant and powerful story about mental health, friendship, and identity, designed especially for young people aged 12 and up. Drawing on real stories from teens across the North of England, Coalesce Dance Theatre brings these experiences to life through an inspiring and emotional mix of contemporary dance and physical theatre.
Diving into the challenges of growing up and the importance of friendships and support when navigating adolescence, Threads shines a light on mental health and reminds us that none of us have to face difficult times alone.
Set on a stage filled with tossed away clothes and a large wardrobe, two dancers take you on a physical, dynamic journey of intertwined experiences that are both heartfelt and visually stunning.
While especially relevant for young audiences, Threads has also struck a deep chord with adults too, who have praised its emotional resonance and universal themes. As one audience member shared, “It was intimate and moving. I was really touched by the repetition of needing support and giving support—it resonated deeply with me. We all need help, but it’s not always easy to ask.” Another attendee said, “The storytelling was so powerful and beautifully delivered, it almost made me cry.”
Young audiences remarked that threads was “Amazing, original, and creative...it told a story in a way I’ve never seen before.”
With its heartfelt message of resilience, support, and connection, Threads is not only a compelling performance for young people but an experience that leaves a lasting impact on hearts and minds across generations.
Coalesce invites audiences to experience this socially urgent new work, threads.
Choreographed by: Fern Wareham & Rachel Maffei
Artists: Janice Ho & Luke Speddings
Understudies: Jordan Sheard & Ben Yorke-Griffiths
Composer: Richard Smithson
Original story development: Rory Aaron
Set Design: Celia Perkins & Caitlin Mawhinney
Set Build: Splinter Scenery
Visual Artist: Aaron Howell
LX Designer:
Technical Manager:
Photography/Videography: Elly Welford & Ben Williams
Produced by: Spin Arts
Supported by:





SHOW FEEDBACK:
“Never seen anything like that before, it was intimate and moving.”
“I loved it, felt a bit awkward at first as we were so close to the dancers but then I got used to it and I enjoyed it.”
“Wow! He climbed so high and jumped off the top, I was so scared he was going to hit his head.”
“I really liked all the lifts and loved that they lifted each other.”
“I kind of zoned out from where I was, it wasn’t just a dance but a story of someone’s life.”
“I found it relatable, I understood some of the messages like clothes being the weight and baggage he carries. I felt sorry for him. It was really strong and powerful and made me feel quite emotional watching it.”
“I can’t believe that was 30 minutes, it felt like 5, time went so fast.”
WORKSHOP FEEDBACK:
“It was loads of fun!”
“I actually realised I’m quite good at sewing, I didn’t need any help and I really liked my creation.”
“It was interesting to hear how clothes are made. Not sure I’d start making my own stuff but my mum said it made her think about shopping second hand more.”
“I’ve never done anything like that before and it’s given me the confidence to try and create something new out of old clothes I don’t wear anymore.”
“I found it really interesting, it did make me think about how much I buy (from Primark) and the impact that has on the world.”
“Big thumbs up from me, really enjoyed myself it was loads of fun.”