Suitcases

To be feared, misunderstood, forgotten.

Hit The Ground Running Dance Theatre Company presents Suitcases. Working in collaboration with Jon Crispin, a Massachusetts based photographer, this performance is inspired by his exhibition, The Willard Suitcases. Jon has worked on his exhibition for more than 10 years and his knowledge of the Willard Institute and the Suitcases will be invaluable to this performance.

In 1995, The Willard Asylum, New York, closed its doors after a century of treating those deemed unfit for civilised society. Discovered in an attic, the suitcases of 427 Willard patients were found. Beautifully preserved epitaphs to a few of those who lived and died at the Willard asylum and a poignant remembrance of the lives they left outside. Drawing inspiration from some of the suitcases found, Hit The Ground Running’s new theatrical performance is a moving exploration of the people behind the suitcases and plays homage to innocent lives lived and lost to madness.

Content warning: Contains themes of mental illness 

Includes curtain raiser performances from special guests... 

Dark Sky Voices Choir 
Dark Sky Voices are an award-winning adult chamber choir based in Tynedale who love to perform songs in a wide range of styles! The group formed in 2019, is directed by Northumberland musician/composer Fiona Lander. 

Elaine Pygall School of Dancing 
The EPSOD Senior Company dancers would like to thank Hit The Ground Running Dance Theatre Company for the opportunity to perform as curtain raisers. They have been dancing together as part of The Elaine Pygall School of Dancing for many years and will be performing their latest piece choreographed by Emily Young.