Welcome to Hit The Ground Running Dance Theatre Company! We are thrilled to present our latest performance ‘Suitcases’ at the beautiful Victoria Baths Manchester on October 2nd 2025 at 7:00PM.

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.

‘Suitcases’ is funded and Supported by

Arts Council England, North Shields Cultural Quarter, Exchange 1856, Queens Hall Hexham, Dance City, Victoria Baths Manchester & Jon Crispin

Warning: ‘Suitcases’ contains themes of mental illness