Sixth Form ‘Riot Club’

Each year, our Sixth Formers pull off a fantastic independent production, testament to their ingenuity, spirit and creativity.

This year, the Lower Sixth opted for Laura Wade’s POSH – a play inspired by Oxford’s notorious, all-male Bullingdon Club, founded over 200 years ago – performed in the oak-panelled splendour of their Sixth Form building, Oakwood. The cast of ‘riot club’ members, ably directed and supported by their director, producer and crew over three nights this week, delivered phenomenal performances. The students managed the whole production, from rehearsal schedules and direction to costume sourcing and programme production, entirely themselves. Despite some outrageous language, the audience deemed the performance “truly outstanding!” Head of Drama, Ms Martin, said she was: “beyond proud of what the girls have achieved – an absolute triumph.” 

Sixth Form Director, Helena, praised everyone’s energy and determination. “It was amazing to see the cast of seventeen year old girls truly transform into privileged Oxford male students. The whole experience was incredibly rewarding.”  

Kate, the play’s Sixth Form producer, commented: “The poignancy of performing a play about an exclusive male society with an all-female cast was irresistible. The play is raw, complex and at times uncomfortable but hugely relevant… it considers the effects and meaning of elitism in a changing society.” 

Given the issues raised by the play, the girls opted to donate all ticket proceeds to The Fawcett Society, who campaign for gender equality and women’s rights.

*All photos by crew member, Tilly.