Matrescence

This performance is presented as part of the VCA Master of Theatre (Writing) Festival 2026.

Written by Iris Warren

When Ruby, a young single mother, has to report the sexual abuse of her daughter- she discovers the insidious systemic issues that act as barriers for justice, as well as the individuals who capitalise off of abuse victims.

Credits

Writer: Iris Warren
Dramaturg: Lilian James

Duration

This performance will run for approximately 90 minutes. Any latecomers will be admitted at the discretion of Front of House.

Content Information

This performance contains discussions of child sexual abuse, rape, domestic violence and death.

Venue Information

This event takes place in Studio 4, located in the Dodds Street Performing Arts Building. Please meet Front of House in the foyer on the ground floor. Studio 4 is then accessible via the stairs or lift.

Image: Last Judgement by Pieter Huys 1553/54

Read more about the Master of Theatre (Writing) graduates presenting this season.

Iris Joy Warren is a playwright and performer from Perth, Western Australia. She earned a Bachelor of Theatre Making from WAAPA and a Masters in Theatre from VCA, graduating in 2025. Her latest work, FEMOID was Initially developed at the Blueroom Theatre’s Fringe season and through residencies with LA MAMA and ATYP, premiered at Theatre Works and the Old Fitz Theatre to positive reviews. As of 2026, Iris is participating in ATYP’s fresh ink & National Studio, WAYTCO’s ‘Made in Boorloo’, and Melbourne Fringe’s Emerging Playwright Lab. Iris is passionate about centering women’s stories and building a body of feminist work as co-founder of Vixen Theatre Company, Theatre by and for women.

Thank you to Raimondo Cortese, the most valuable teacher I have ever had - you always believe in me and encourage me to reach my potential. Thank you to my Dramaturg, the blindingly intelligent Lilian James - my best friend, your endless talent astounds me, I feel so lucky to be in your orbit. Thank you to "Ruby" and "Heaven", your resilience and strength inspires me. Your deep, generous love inspires me even more.

• Please arrive at the venue at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to secure your seat. Due to high demand, if you have not arrived by the start of the event, your ticket may be released to any waiting patrons at the door.

• Please stay home if you feel unwell, even with mild symptoms. Face masks are welcome in all settings for community and personal safety.  

• Admission to any of our concerts and events is strictly at the discretion of Front of House. We have zero tolerance for any disrespectful behaviour. 

TICKET PRICE

Free. Registrations required on Humanitix.

Please note that there is often a drop-off in attendance at our free events on the day of the performance. If this event is booked out and you have not secured a ticket, we encourage you to arrive at the venue 15 minutes before the advertised start time and speak to our Front of House team. Once audience members with tickets have been seated, any remaining seats will be made available to patrons waiting at the door. Please be advised that entry without securing a ticket in advance cannot be guaranteed.

If you have booked for a performance and are no longer able to attend, please cancel your booking via your Humanitix account or email us at fineartsmusic-tickets@unimelb.edu.au.

PARKING 

The City of Melbourne has changed the parking restrictions around the Southbank Campus. Parking control hours are now expanded to 7am–10pm, seven days per week, and are capped at three hours. A $2-per-hour fee after 7pm is also now in place. There is no change to the $4-per-hour peak rate between 7am–7pm. Parking inspectors are regularly in the area fining drivers who overstay their meter, so we encourage everyone to be aware and avoid an expensive fine.  

ACCESSIBILITY 

We are committed to making our events accessible and will accommodate requirements wherever possible. All venues at the Southbank campus are wheelchair accessible. Please contact us at fineartsmusic-tickets@unimelb.edu.au if you have any questions. 

Read more about accessibility at our venues.