Salon After D’Arc: Fever Dreams

Famous fandoms and internet fixations crafting obsessive love that blurs the line between admiration and longing.

Salon After D’Arc returns in 2026 with 4 thought-provoking evenings exploring the forces that shape how we love and remember.

Hosted by Jamila Rizvi (Deputy Managing Director of Future Women), our first event of the series, Fever Dreams, will explore love and obsession as a powerful emotional and cultural force.

Hear from Dr Hannah McCann (Senior Lecturer in Cultural Studies at the University of Melbourne) as she delves into Taylor Swift’s fanbase through an academic lens, understanding celebrity fixation as formation of identity and belonging.

Comedian and writer Aurelia St Clair will explore internet obsessions, perhaps even turning the lens back on you and the patterns your own algorithm has quietly stitched together.

Then, comedian Rosie Waterland will join Jamila in conversation to discuss whether ‘reality television IS that deep’, exploring the themes of identity, feminism and belonging.

The Salon After D'Arc series is generously supported by the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust. It is an opportunity to delve deeper into interesting topics, make connections in the beautiful surrounds of the Library and view rare books acquired through the Women Writers Fund initiative.

Presented in State Library Victoria’s 170th year, Salon After D’Arc invites audiences to consider not only the stories we inherit, but those still being written and whose voices are finally being brought to the forefront.

Don’t miss out on a special collections viewing from 6.30pm. There will also be an opportunity to view the collection during the intermission and a cash bar will be open throughout the evening.

Book your tickets now.

Please note: This event is for people aged 18 and over and may contain adult themes. Please check nearer to the event for content advisory.

By registering to attend or purchasing a ticket to a State Library Victoria event, you agree to our Conditions of Entry.

You can read accessibility information about the Library here.

Views expressed by the speakers do not necessarily represent the views of the State Library Victoria.