James Graham’s Punch to transfer to the West End’s Apollo Theatre

James Graham's new play Punch is transferring to London's West End this autumn. Following it's current sold-out run at The Young Vic Theatre, the show will play at the Apollo Theatre from 22 September to 29 November 2025.

The drama received praise from both audiences and critics alike when it premiered at Nottingham Playhouse earlier this year.

Writer James Graham is an Olivier Award-winner and his previous work includes Best of Enemies and Dear England. The play is based on the book Right From Wrong by Jacob Dunne, who served as a production consultant on the piece. It tells the extraordinary true story of how Dunne himself threw a single punch and ended up in prison.

The production is directed by Nottingham Playhouse's Artistic Director Adam Penford and will star the current Young Vic cast. Reprising their roles from the Nottingham run are soap stars Julie Hesmondhalgh (Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Coronation Street) as Joan and Tony Hirst (Hollyoaks, Coronation Street) as David. Joining them is David Shields (Black Mirror) as Jacob. The cast is then completed by Alec Boaden as Raf, DS Villiers and Sam; Shalisha James-Davis as Clare and Nicola; Emma Pallant as Wendy, Sandra and Jacob's Mum.

The creative team for the show includes Anna Fleischle as Set and Costume Design and Robbie Butler as Lighting Design. Alexandra Faye Braithwaite and Leanne Pinder are responsible for movement director with Lynne Page as movement consultation. Kev McCurdy leads on fight direction.

Punch will play at the Apollo Theatre from 22 September to 29 November 2025.