Punch
No performances this weekend
See next weekend's performancesThings to Know Before You Go
Is Punch suitable for younger audiences?
Punch deals with mature themes including violence, death, grief and the criminal justice system, and is best suited to teens and adults. It is generally recommended for audience members aged 12 and over, but parents and guardians should use their own judgement based on a young person’s sensitivity to intense subject matter.
Is Punch based on a true story?
Yes. Punch is inspired by the real-life story of Jacob Dunne, a Nottingham teenager whose single punch on a night out led to tragic consequences. The play explores what happened afterwards, including his meeting with the parents of the young man who died, and how that encounter reshaped all of their lives.
What themes does Punch explore?
Punch examines responsibility, remorse and the impact of a split-second decision. It looks at how lives are changed by violence, how families cope with loss, and what it means to seek forgiveness. The play also shines a light on restorative justice and the possibility of finding a way forward after unimaginable harm.
Do I need to know anything about the real case before seeing Punch?
No prior knowledge is necessary. The play tells its story clearly and accessibly, so you can arrive knowing nothing and follow every twist and turn. If you are familiar with Jacob Dunne’s case, you may recognise elements of his journey, but the production stands entirely on its own as a piece of theatre.
What is the atmosphere like at Punch?
Although the subject is serious, Punch is not a relentlessly bleak evening. The production combines intensity with warmth, humour and hope. You can expect moments of tension and confrontation alongside quieter, reflective scenes, creating a balanced experience that leaves plenty to think and talk about afterwards.
Is there a dress code for attending Punch at the Apollo Theatre?
There is no formal dress code. Most theatregoers opt for smart-casual clothing that is comfortable for an evening in the West End. You are welcome to dress up for a special occasion or come straight from work or a day out in London—you will not feel out of place either way.
About this show
A powerful true story of accountability and forgiveness lies at the heart of Punch, James Graham’s gripping new play at the Apollo Theatre. Inspired by the real-life experience of Jacob Dunne, it follows a Nottingham teenager whose impulsive act on a Saturday night has devastating, life-altering consequences. After serving his prison sentence, Jacob emerges into a world that no longer makes sense, haunted by guilt and unsure how to move forward. When he is contacted by Joan and David, the parents of the young man who died, an extraordinary journey of restorative justice begins. From the Olivier Award-winning writer James Graham and director Adam Penford, Punch is a fast-paced, emotionally charged drama that explores responsibility, remorse and the possibility of change. A superb ensemble cast brings this real story to the West End stage, offering an evening that is thought-provoking, humane and unexpectedly hopeful.
