Dry Land
Ruby Rae Spiegel
I was drawn to Dry Land for its stark realism and its unflinching portrayal of teenage abortion in the United States. The play’s urgency and feminist perspective felt especially relevant, and I was interested in how such an intimate, politically charged moment could be staged with honesty and care.
I focused on the pivotal abortion scene, approaching it through a consent-based, trauma-informed rehearsal process. Working collaboratively with the actors, we developed a movement-led staging and a simple practical blood effect that felt both visceral and safe. The scene was built gradually, layering physical choreography, breath, and text to preserve emotional intensity while maintaining trust and shared ownership in the room.
cast. : George Bird (Amy) & Eloise Thody (Esther)