Punch
Apollo TheatreA gripping and deeply human true story of tragedy, justice, and redemption, Punch is James Graham's most moving work yet. Book tickets on BritishTheatre.com.
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2 hours 25 minutes (including interval)
Recommended for ages 12+
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A True Story That Demands To Be Heard
Based on Jacob Dunne’s memoir Right From Wrong, Punch tells the harrowing and redemptive journey of a Nottingham teenager whose impulsive act changes lives forever. After throwing a fatal punch during a night out, Jacob serves time in prison and emerges lost, guilt-ridden, and searching for purpose. Unexpectedly, he is contacted by the parents of his victim - Joan and David - and their meeting ignites a profound transformation.
This searing new play explores grief, forgiveness, and the hope for change in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Critically acclaimed and deeply affecting, Punch speaks to the heart of justice, masculinity, and humanity.
Know before you go
Dates: 22 September – 29 November 2025
Venue: Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue, London
Special Performances:
Gala Night: Friday 26 September at 7:00pm
Audio Described: Saturday 1 November at 2:30pm
Captioned: Saturday 15 November at 2:30pm
BSL Interpreted: Thursday 20 November at 7:30pm
Visitor guidelines
Arrival: Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance begins.
Accessibility: The Apollo Theatre offers accessible seating and performances. Contact the venue for full details.
Dress Code: Smart casual recommended.
Mobile Devices: Must be silenced during the performance.
Food & Drink: Outside food and drink not permitted. Onsite refreshments available.
Cast and creatives
Cast
David Shields – Jacob (Winner, Best Performance in a Play, UK Theatre Awards 2024)
Julie Hesmondhalgh – Joan / Nan
Tony Hirst – David / Derek / Tony / Raf’s Dad
Alec Boaden – Raf / DS Villers / Sam
Shalisha James-Davis – Clare / Nicola
Emma Pallant – Jacob’s Mum / Wendy / Sandra
Creative Team
Playwright: James Graham
Based on the book: Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne
Director: Adam Penford
Production Design: Anna Fleischle
Lighting Design: Robbie Butler
Sound Design & Composition: Alexandra Faye Braithwaite
Movement Direction: Leanne Pinder
Casting: Christopher Worrall CDG
Associate Director: Omar Khan
General Management: New Road Theatricals
Awards
David Shields – Best Performance in a Play, UK Theatre Awards 2024
James Graham – Kevin Pakenham Award, Longford Trust 2024
Opening times
Monday, Wednesday to Saturday: 7:30pm Tuesday: 7:00pm (with post-show Q&A) Thursday & Saturday matinees: 2:30pm
Frequently asked questions
When is Punch playing in the West End?
22 September to 29 November 2025 at the Apollo Theatre.
Is the play based on a true story?
Yes, it is adapted from Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne and tells his real-life story.
Are there post-show discussions?
Yes, every Tuesday performance includes a post-show Q&A with special guests.
What are the access options?
There are captioned, BSL-interpreted, and audio-described performances. Contact the venue for more info.
In Apollo Theatre
Venue address
31 Shaftesbury Avenue, W1D 7ES
Seating plan
Access
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:
A wheelchair access entrance and platform lift is available.
Are there adapted toilets?
A fully equipped adapted toilet is available at the rear of the stalls.
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?
There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium with conventional headsets. Headsets are available on a first come first served basis.
Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?
Guide dogs and hearing dogs are permitted in the auditorium and staff can dog sit by prior arrangement. Advance booking is recommended.
Please contact the theatre directly for further information.
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