Punch London tickets
Following sold-out runs at the Nottingham Playhouse and Young Vic, Punch, transfers to the West End for a strictly limited 10-week season from 22nd September. Don’t miss your chance to see this critically-acclaimed new play in a ‘powerhouse of a production’ (Whatsonstage) at the Apollo Theatre. Book your official tickets today!
About Punch
An extraordinary true story is adapted for the stage in a gripping, high-energy and deeply moving production
Jacob, a teenager from Nottingham, spends his Saturday nights seeking thrills with his friends. One fateful evening, an impulsive punch leads to fatal consequences. After serving prison time, Jacob finds himself lost and directionless. Searching for answers, Joan and David – the parents of his victim James – ask to meet, sparking a profound transformation in Jacob’s life.
A powerful true story of hope, humanity, and the possibility of change.
Facts and critical acclaim
- Punch is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch.
- Playwright, James Graham, won his first Olivier Award, for Labour of Love as Best New Comedy in 2018 - his other play, Ink, was also nominated for an Olivier in the same year!
- Artistic Director, Adam Penford, accepted the Theatre of the Year 2025 award in The Stage Awards, on behalf of his venue - Nottingham Playhouse.
- Punch’s run at both Nottingham Playhouse and the Young Vic were complete sell-outs
- ★★★★★ ‘Another state-of-the-nation masterpiece from James Graham' - The Telegraph
Please bear in mind
Punch contains strong language, references to violence, death, bereavement, alcohol and substance misuse, mental health issues, knives on stage and is based on real life people and events. The production is recommended for ages 12+ and has loud music throughout, flashing lights throughout , strobe lighting, sudden noises, theatrical smoke and fire/flame effects.
Punch cast
- Raf/DS Villers/Sam - Alec Boaden
- Joan/Nan - Julie Hesmondhalgh
- David / Derek / Tony / Raf's Dad - Tony Hirst
- Clare/Nicola - Shalisha James-Davis
- Jacob’s Mum / Wendy / Sandra - Emma Pallant
- Jacob - David Shields
- Understudy David / Derek / Tony / Raf's Dad - Rob Alexander-Adams
- Understudy Raf / DS Villers / Sam - Joshua Glenister
- Understudy Joan / Nan / Jacob's Mum / Wendy / Sandra - Rebecca Todd
- Understudy Clare / Teacher / Nicola - Marnie Walkinshaw
Punch creatives
- Based on the book Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne
- Playwright - James Graham
- Director - Adam Penford
- Production Designer - Anna Fleischle
- Lighting Designer - Robbie Butler
- Sound Designer and Composer - Alexandra Faye Braithwaite
- Movement Director - Leanne Pinder
- Movement Consultant - Lynne Page