WOMB PARTY •

Film & Edit: YDT Studios

THE WORK

Stefania & Amarnah are creating a piece of work that explores and expresses both of their experiences in and around abortion. The work aims to be a starting point for a considered yet candid conversation about how people experience abortion, to help destigmatize the topic and advocate for a future with stigma-free reproductive autonomy.

At the heart of WOMB PARTY lies a unique concept: a lively gathering taking place within a womb, where all are welcome. Stefania and Amarnah embody the roles of Fanny and Gina, the consciousness of the womb, hosting an immersive event filled with refreshments, games, and dance. However, the narrative unfolds as unexpected guests arrive, prompting pivotal choices and reflections.

The aspiration for this piece is to be both informative and nurturing, contributing to the ongoing conversations about reproductive rights, equality, and healthcare. Additionally, it aims to celebrate choice and empower individuals who have felt silenced, shamed, or stigmatized.

Premiering in SPRING 2025 at The Place, London

Photos taken at The Place, London by Camilla Greenwell

WHY WE ARE MAKING IT

The seed of this project was planted in 2017, during our first conversation about our abortion experiences, where we realised two vital things: the privilege we hold in accessing free abortion healthcare based solely on our geographical location, and the profound healing and sense of solidarity we experienced by openly discussing our journeys with each other.

Moreover, this conversation revealed a stark truth: countless individuals lack the opportunity to openly share their abortion experiences. Many navigate this profoundly personal choice in secrecy, burdened by the weight of stigma and the fear of judgment. Over the span of several years, characterized by introspection and self-reflection, we gradually felt equipped and prepared to extend our support to others. Once we arrived at this juncture, a resolute decision emerged — a firm commitment to take action and provide assistance to those facing similar situations through our art.

We have now completed two phases of research and development and one phase of creation (all ACE funded and commissioned by The Place), where we had the time and support to delve into people diverse experiences with abortion, historical contexts, and the intricate politics surrounding reproductive healthcare. We now deeply understand the profound relevance, significance, and urgency of our work.

To present, we have created a narrative and a script with the help of writer Andrea Heaton, music has been composed by Johanna Bramli and Ed Chivers, and Set and Costumes designs have been made by Emma Williams. We are now hoping (funding pending) to embark onto our final phase of creation and production in Summer/Autumn 2024 and premiere and tour the work in Spring/Summer 2025.

COLLABORATION WITH ONE DANCE UK

Crucially, our visible support for choice throughout the creative process has already begun to open up dialogues and challenge the prevailing culture of silence. Friends, family, and colleagues in the dance industry have reached out, sharing their own past abortion experiences and seeking guidance for their current procedures.

From our research here are some common reasons and experiences with abortion/miscarriage in the performing arts industry:

Got pregnant soon after graduating, and didn’t want to pause their just starting career
Got pregnant before starting a new performing job
Got pregnant during their performing arts training and didn’t what to pause their education
1 or 2 days after an abortion or miscarriage some performers had to rehearse/perform, enduring physical pain and emotional exhaustion
Many felt like they couldn’t speak about it to anyone, including their employers or teachers

These are just a few experiences from people in our industry, and we know for certain that there are many more out there.

For this reason, we partnered up with One Dance UK to create an info sheet to help dancers and performers navigate their abortions and pregnancy endings.

The info sheet will cover the following topics:

What to expect when having an abortion/miscarriage
How and where to access an abortion in the UK
Before, during and after an abortion/miscarriage care – mental, emotional and physical
Going back to dancing/moving after an abortion/miscarriage

PROJECT PARTNERS

Abortion Right Uk – Abortion Rights is the national pro-choice campaign. They are campaigning to defend and extend women’s rights and access to safe, legal abortion. They oppose any attack on the 1967 Abortion Act including any attempt to lower the abortion time limit.
Abortion Talk – Pro-choice, pro-voice. They are a UK charity working to destigmatise abortions one conversation at a time through our UK talkline and workshops.
Ad’iyah – Muslim Abortion Collective – Providing love, dua and support for Muslim folk during their abortion journeys. Dua is a fundamental part of being Muslim.
Bpas (British Pregnancy Advisory Service) – The UK’s leading abortion care service, we campaign for women’s reproductive choices.
Doctors for Choice UK – Doctors for Choice UK are a group of healthcare professionals and students who campaign for abortion rights.
Shout Your Abortion – a movement working to normalise abortion through art, media, and community events.
Women on Web – a global nonprofit organisation which provides help and information on safe abortion in all countries were abortion is illegal or hard to access.