Following critically acclaimed, sold-out runs at Nottingham Playhouse and the Young Vic, James Graham’s Punch is set to make its highly anticipated West End debut at the Apollo Theatre. The powerful production, based on Jacob Dunne’s memoir Right From Wrong, will run for a strictly limited 10-week engagement from 22 September to 29 November 2025.
Produced by KPPL Productions, Mark Gordon Pictures, and Eilene Davidson Productions in association with the Young Vic and Nica Burns, Punch brings to life the real-life journey of Jacob Dunne, a Nottingham teenager whose reckless actions led to devastating consequences. The play explores themes of justice, redemption, and the power of restorative dialogue as Jacob seeks atonement through an unexpected meeting with the parents of his victim.
The production features an outstanding cast, with David Shields reprising his UK Theatre Award-winning performance as Jacob. The ensemble also includes Alec Boaden (Masters of the Air), Julie Hesmondhalgh (Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Boiling Point), Shalisha James-Davis (I May Destroy You), and Emma Pallant (Queenie), under the direction of Nottingham Playhouse Artistic Director Adam Penford.
James Graham, known for his Olivier Award-winning work, expressed his deep connection to the project: “The honour and responsibility of telling Jacob, Joan, and David’s story, and witnessing the profound impact on audiences, makes Punch one of the most meaningful plays I’ve ever created. We want the show to engage audiences and also contribute to wider conversations about justice and masculinity.”
In keeping with the play’s commitment to social impact, the West End production will expand on its educational and outreach initiatives. Post-show discussions, curated performances for school and special interest groups, and a free learning pack will provide deeper engagement with the themes of the play.
Adding to the excitement, Punch will also make its Broadway debut at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre this autumn, marking a transatlantic theatrical event.
Tickets for the West End run are available now via www.PunchThePlay.com. Group and education rates are available, ensuring accessibility to a wide audience.
This production is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch incidents.
