Capturing the ups and down of a woman's very real daily life is the hilarious play created by mob, for mob, titled 'GOODBYE AUNTY FLO'.
ILBIJERRI Theatre Company commissioned Noongar/Yamatji/Burmese playwrighter Nazaree Dickerson to write the play that captures women's experiences of menopause.
Ms Dickerson sought out local First Nations communities along with the wider Victorian community during development and thus the story was born out of conversations about this often-misunderstood life transition.
GOODBYE AUNTY FLO integrates many aspects of menopause and the personal stories Ms Dickerson uncovered that allow for a better understanding of, and comfort to this specific stage in life.
"The lack of dialogue around menopause means vital information is not being passed on to the next generation, so support is scarce," Ms Dickerson said.
"First Nations women have held such knowledge in a private space for thousands of generations.
"Now, in a modern era, the way we acknowledge this time of life has changed. Such a massive shift deserves to be valued."
Often overlooked and underestimated, menopause can directly effect every woman and every family member indirectly.
The play explores individual experiences and responses in an accessible and entertaining way, and seeks to empower women to make choices that minimise the negative impacts of menopause.
The aim is for the play to be a conversation starter, to further destigmatise this important transition.
Production for GOODBYE AUNTY FLO has been supported by health promotion experts, community health workers and community Elders, as well as engaging with community to explore women's business in relation to menopause.
Two online women's yarning circles took place, as well as an in-person women's morning tea, weaving workshop, and creative development.
Gunditjmara woman April Clarke has extensive experience working in Aboriginal Affairs across a wide range of sectors including education, justice, children's services, and health
She is also the Community Coordinator of the production.
"I see so many of our tiddas in their 40's and 50's who are struggling with menopause in silence," Ms Clarke says.
"If it is talked about it's spoken about in secrecy, as it seems to have an attachment of shame and taboo.
"Together we will hit this taboo subject head on to ensure the tiddas, their partners and families are all informed to offer the right supports".
GOODBYE AUNTY FLO tours in March 2023, promoting conversation about menopause through women's events that combine performance and yarning circles.
