NEWS TICKER
James Graham’s Punch Transfers to the West End for Limited 10-Week Run
Published on
April 1, 2025
By
Julia Jordan
Powerful True Story of Redemption Opens at the Apollo Theatre This September
Following sold-out runs at Nottingham Playhouse and the Young Vic, James Graham’s critically acclaimed play Punch will transfer to the Apollo Theatre in London’s West End for a strictly limited engagement from 22 September to 29 November 2025. Based on Jacob Dunne’s memoir Right from Wrong, the production explores themes of justice, grief, and transformation through one young man’s real-life journey toward redemption.
Described by critics as a “gut-wrenching, hard-hitting and, at times, really funny” work, Punch has received five-star reviews and widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and social relevance.
A Story That Resonates
Directed by Adam Penford, Artistic Director of Nottingham Playhouse, Punch tells the true story of Jacob, a teenager whose life changes irreversibly after a fatal one-punch incident. Released from prison and struggling with the weight of his actions, Jacob is approached by Joan and David, the parents of his victim, initiating a powerful journey of reconciliation and self-discovery.
The play explores the criminal justice system, masculinity, and the human capacity for change, sparking ongoing national conversations—including a recent presentation of the play’s themes in Parliament and at HMP YOI Isis.
Original Cast to Return
The West End transfer will reunite the original cast, including:
David Shields as Jacob (winner, Best Performance – UK Theatre Awards 2024)
Julie Hesmondhalgh as Joan
Tony Hirst as David
Alec Boaden, Shalisha James-Davis, and Emma Pallant in supporting roles
Creative Team
Writer: James Graham (Dear England, This House)
Director: Adam Penford
Production Designer: Anna Fleischle
Lighting Designer: Robbie Butler
Sound Design & Composition: Alexandra Faye Braithwaite
Movement Direction: Leanne Pinder
Casting: Christopher Worrall CDG
Transatlantic Impact
The West End run will coincide with the play’s Broadway premiere at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, presented by Manhattan Theatre Club. Producers have committed all profits from the West End production to funding access for young people to see the show.
Engagement and Access
The production will feature extensive educational outreach, including:
Post-show Q&As every Tuesday
School and group performances supported by Go Live Theatre Projects
A free learning pack exploring the play’s themes and development
Access performances including audio-described, captioned, and BSL-interpreted shows
Performance Schedule and Booking
Venue: Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London
Dates: 22 September – 29 November 2025
Opening Night Gala: Friday 26 September, 7pm
Performance Times:
Monday, Wednesday–Saturday: 7.30pm
Tuesday: 7pm (with Q&A)
Thursday & Saturday Matinees: 2.30pm
Access Performances:
Audio Described: Sat 1 November, 2.30pm
Captioned: Sat 15 November, 2.30pm
BSL Interpreted: Thu 20 November, 7.30pm
With its moving real-life story, compelling cast, and a creative team at the forefront of British theatre, Punch promises to be one of the most important and talked-about plays of the autumn. This West End transfer cements its place as not just a theatrical success, but a timely and resonant work that speaks to the power of empathy, justice, and transformation.
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