James Graham’s Acclaimed Drama “Punch” Transfers to London’s West End Apollo Theatre, Sets Broadway Premiere

LONDON and NEW YORK – James Graham’s powerful new drama, “Punch”, is set to transfer to the prestigious West End stage in London following a critically acclaimed, sold-out engagement at The Young Vic Theatre. The production, based on a compelling true story of tragedy, forgiveness, redemption, and reform, will commence performances at the Apollo Theatre in September 2025, adding a significant new work to London’s vibrant theatrical landscape.

Simultaneously, the play is slated for a New York premiere on Broadway later this autumn, underscoring its growing international prominence and the universal resonance of its themes. The transfer to the West End, a hallmark of theatrical success, solidifies “Punch” as one of the most anticipated productions of the upcoming London season.

The West End Run

The London West End engagement at the historic Apollo Theatre is scheduled to run from September 22, 2025, through November 29, 2025. This follows a highly successful run at The Young Vic Theatre, which concludes its limited engagement on April 26, 2025. The move to the Apollo, a cornerstone of London’s theatre district situated on Shaftesbury Avenue, marks a significant step for the production, allowing a wider audience to experience the drama after its potent impact at the Young Vic.

The transfer brings the same production elements and performing company that garnered praise at the Young Vic, ensuring continuity in artistic vision and performance quality. The Apollo Theatre, known for hosting a diverse range of productions, offers a prominent platform for “Punch” to reach audiences in the heart of the West End.

The Production and Cast

“Punch” is penned by the Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham, known for his insightful and often politically charged works such as “This House” and “Ink”. His latest play is directed by Adam Penford, the Artistic Director of Nottingham Playhouse, where the production originally premiered before its Young Vic run.

Crucially, the West End production will feature the current Young Vic cast, ensuring that the acclaimed performances from the previous run are carried over to the Apollo stage. Key cast members are set to reprise the roles they originated at the Nottingham Playhouse and continued at the Young Vic, anchoring the production with established portrayals.

These include Julie Hesmondhalgh in the role of Joan, Tony Hirst as David, and David Shields portraying Jacob. All three actors were part of the play’s premiere company in Nottingham. The transferring cast also features Alec Boaden, Shalisha James-Davis, and Emma Pallant, rounding out the ensemble that brings this powerful narrative to life.

The collaborative effort between Graham’s writing, Penford’s direction, and the cohesive cast has been central to the production’s success and its ability to connect deeply with audiences.

The Story: Right From Wrong

The narrative of “Punch” is based on the true story recounted in Jacob Dunne’s book, “Right From Wrong”. The play delves into the complex aftermath of a moment of violence and its profound ripple effects on multiple lives.

It explores themes of tragedy, the difficult path towards forgiveness, the possibility of redemption, and the potential for societal and personal reform. By drawing directly from Dunne’s personal experience, the play offers a visceral and unflinching look at the consequences of actions and the lengthy, often painful, journey towards understanding and reconciliation.
The true-to-life foundation provides the play with a powerful emotional core, prompting audiences to confront challenging questions about justice, empathy, and the capacity for change within individuals and communities.

Broader Impact and Broadway Premiere

The transfer of “Punch” to the West End coincides with its planned premiere in New York City. The play is scheduled to appear on Broadway this autumn at the Samuel J Friedman Theatre, a venue operated by the esteemed Manhattan Theatre Club.

Significantly, the Broadway production will also be directed by Adam Penford, establishing a consistent artistic vision for the play across both major international theatrical hubs. This dual presence in London and New York within a short timeframe highlights the play’s perceived importance and its potential to resonate with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

The decision by the Manhattan Theatre Club to produce “Punch” on Broadway underscores its belief in the play’s artistic merit and its relevance to contemporary audiences in the United States, mirroring the reception it received in the UK.

Anticipation Builds

With its successful runs at Nottingham Playhouse and The Young Vic, and now confirmed engagements on both London’s West End and New York’s Broadway, “Punch” has quickly established itself as a significant new work in contemporary theatre.

The transfer to the Apollo Theatre and the upcoming Broadway premiere promise to bring this impactful true story, told through James Graham’s acclaimed writing and Adam Penford’s direction, to a wider global audience, further cementing its status as a powerful and essential piece of theatre.

The anticipation is high for both the West End opening in September 2025 and the Broadway debut, as audiences prepare to witness the compelling performances of the cast in a story that challenges perspectives on crime, punishment, and the enduring human capacity for change.