Duration
2 hrs 25 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until November 29, 2025
Age limit
Suitable for 12+ yrs
Why Watch Punch?
- Olivier-winning and Tony-nominated playwright James Graham returns with his most moving work yet, the compelling true story of Jacob Dunne and the fateful punch that changed his life forever.
- Hot off the success from smash hits like Tammy Faye (with music by Elton John and Jake Shears) and Ink, Graham is one of the UK’s most celebrated contemporary dramatists, reknown for his whip-smart writing and compelling characters.
- Featuring powerful storytelling, gripping dialogue, and moving performances from a talented cast, the show is directed by Adam Penford and explores themes of justice, redemption, and transformation.
- Playing for a strictly limited 10-week run at the historic Apollo Theatre, Punch offers an intimate and unforgettable theatrical experience.
Punch is a poignant adaptation of Jacob Dunne’s memoir Right From Wrong, brought to the stage by James Graham, the Olivier Award-winning and Tony-nominated playwright known for his razor-sharp writing and deep dives into British identity and institutions. Graham’s past work includes Tammy Faye—the critically acclaimed musical created in collaboration with Elton John and Jake Shears—which won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical in 2023, as well as the hit plays Quiz, This House, and Ink. His knack for blending historical fact with modern resonance makes Punch a must-watch. Directed by Adam Penford, the production delves into the real-life story of Dunne, who, as a teenager, threw a single punch that resulted in the death of James Hodgkinson. After serving his sentence, Dunne's path to redemption began when he engaged in a restorative justice process with James's parents, leading to profound personal transformation. The play has been lauded for its emotional depth and has sparked conversations nationwide about justice and forgiveness.
Storyline
On a regular day in Nottingham, a young teenager heads out on a Saturday with his friends. A seemingly innocuous choice, it leads the youth to make an impulsive decision with tragic - and fatal - consequences: a single punch that takes the life of trainee paramedic James Hodgkinson. Left to deal with the aftermath, a young Jacob Dunne ponders his life in prison, finding redemption in the most unlikely place: the parents of James. Following his release from prison, Joan and David Hodgkinson initiate a restorative justice process with Jacob that challenges all parties to confront their pain, seek understanding, and explore the possibility of forgiveness. The narrative unfolds as a powerful exploration of accountability, empathy, and the human capacity for change that goes beyond being just a story about a single act of violence and grows into an exploration of the stories we choose to tell around our fateful choices.
Cast & Crew
- Leading roles: Alec Boaden, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Tony Hirst, Shalisha James-Davis, Emma Pallant, and David Shields
- Director: Adam Penford
- Book: Jacob Dunne
- Playwright: James Graham
- Set and costume designer: Anna Fleischle
- Lighting designer: Robbie Butler
- Sound designer: Alexandra Faye Braithwaite
Cast & Crew
- Leading roles: Alec Boaden, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Tony Hirst, Shalisha James-Davis, Emma Pallant, and David Shields
- Director: Adam Penford
- Book: Jacob Dunne
- Playwright: James Graham
- Set and costume designer: Anna Fleischle
- Lighting designer: Robbie Butler
- Sound designer: Alexandra Faye Braithwaite
Age Suitability
- This show is suitable for ages 12 years and above.
- This production contains strong language, strobe lighting, and flashing lights throughout, as well as references to violence, death, alcohol, and substance misuse. Viewer discretion is advised.
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
- Most theatres are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.
Apollo Theatre
Located in the heart of the West End, Apollo Theatre is one of Shaftesbury Avenue’s historic gems. Named after the Greek god of the arts and music, the Apollo Theatre is a mainstay of musical entertainment in London. The theater has a rich history of showcasing incredible productions, from the 1901 comedy The Belle of Bohemia to recent hits like Rain Man. With its grand Edwardian façade and stylish Art déco interiors, the Apollo offers a uniquely intimate theatre experience in central London. Whether you’re seeing a limited-run political comedy or a big-name musical, it’s a venue that combines vintage charm with excellent sightlines. The Apollo Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EZ, UK
- By metro:
The closest tube station is Piccadilly Circus, served by the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines.
- By train:
The closest train station is London Charing Cross, a 10-minute walk from the theater.
- By bus:
Buses to Piccadilly Circus and Shaftesbury Avenue – 12, 14, 19, and 38; Buses to Regent Street – 6, 13, 15, 23, 88, 94, 139, 159, and 453
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Souvenir shop
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed, Elevator access
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
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Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from £24 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 years and above, as it contains strong language, strobe lighting, flashing lights, and references to violence, death, alcohol, and substance misuse.
The show is playing at the Apollo Theatre in London.
Based on real events, Punch follows a teen whose fatal mistake sparks an extraordinary journey through remorse, restorative justice, and redemption.
The running time is 2 hours and 25 minutes, with a 20-minute intermission.
The main stars of the show are Alec Boaden, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Tony Hirst, Shalisha James-Davis, Emma Pallant, and David Shields.
