Apollo Theatre
31 Shaftesbury Avenue, London, W1D 7ES
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Punch Tickets
The critically-acclaimed new play from Olivier Award-winning playwright James Graham now at the Apollo Theatre.
4.7 11 reviews from 11 verified reviews- Booking until: Saturday, 29 November 2025
- Running time: 2hr 25min. Incl. 20 min. interval.
- Tickets refunded if your event is cancelled
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Punch in London
Are you ready for an emotional rollercoaster? This is a powerful new drama from the BAFTA and Olivier-winning playwright James Graham, inspired by a true tragedy and a play for our times. Relevant, gritty and impactful, you won’t forget Punch any time soon. After two sold-out runs at the Nottingham Playhouse and Young Vic, the production now has a well-earned West End transfer this Autumn.
What is Punch about?
A raw and honest exploration of young masculinity and violence, Punch is inspired by Jacob Dunne’s memoir Right from Wrong. Teenager Jacob Dunne lives in The Meadows, an area of Nottingham. He and his friends spend their Saturday nights drinking in the city, like teens all over the country, but unlike most, they’re looking for trouble. One night, when they’re out in Old Market Square, he punches a stranger and that one act, that one thoughtless move, has fatal consequences. Eventually released from prison, Jacob finds himself adrift. Then Joan and David, the victim’s mum and dad, ask to meet him. They make an unexpected connection and Jacob finally starts to turn his life around.
James Graham (Sherwood, Dear England, Boys From the Blackstuff) has turned Jacob Dunne’s brutal real-life account into a moving new play that’s also entertaining and heartbreaking, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Packed with raw and emotional storytelling that tackles complex social issues with a unique theatrical presentation, Punch is a show that will stay with you long after the show finishes. You are in for a treat when you witness what will be one of the most talked about productions of the year.
Next Performances for Punch at the Apollo Theatre
Punch Official Theatre Tickets
Our central reservation system connects you directly to the Apollo Theatre box office system. We provide live & full availability for Punch tickets, from VIP and premium, to top price and discount tickets, helping you choose the perfect tickets for your budget. Pick your seats from our interactive seating plan and get your theatre tickets emailed to you instantly after your booking. Simply present your e-tickets at the door on the day and experience what London & the West End have best to offer: the magic of theatre. Buying tickets for Punch has never been easier.
Punch Ticket Information
- Booking until:
Saturday, 29 November 2025
- Running time:
2hr 25min. Incl. 20 min. interval.
- Age restrictions
Ages 12+.
- Important Information
Contains strong language, strobe lighting and flashing lights throughout, as well as references to violence, death, alcohol and substance misuse.
- Cancellations & Refunds
Once booked, tickets to Punch are usually non exchangeable and non refundable as per our terms & conditions. In practice, however, we will do our best to accommodate your request as long as we are notified at least 48 hours before the performance. Please contact us for more information.
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Punch reviews
What to expect:
ActingMusic
Costumes
Story
Lighting
- Recommended for:
- Teenagers (91%)
Press Reviews
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Another state-of-the-nation masterpiece from James Graham
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Tucked inside this grave account of crime, punishment, forgiveness and rehabilitation is warmth and humour
Latest customer reviews
All reviews are from customers who have been invited to leave a review just after seeing Punch.
verified
Interesting take on a real life storyE Reviewed on 02 October 2025 by Elizabeth
United Kingdom
verified
HumblingA great performance telling a difficult tale. I enjoyed the second act more than the first. First act seemed a bit disjointed but I appreciate it was part of showing the chaotic and unstable life of the young man. Felt that the breakdown of the relationship with the Mother could have been better explored. Also the brother was barerly mentioned and that dynamic could have been better explored. But a thout provoking play tackling real life issues. Well acted in the main. Also thanks to the theatre staff who changed my seats as I could not manage the stairs.
L Reviewed on 30 September 2025 by Linda
United Kingdom
verified
If Carlsberg did theatre …This show ticks every box. Outstanding acting and superb storytelling. I had high hopes after everything I’d heard and it certainly lived up to them. Everything you want from a night at the theatre - utterly moving, emotional and joyful. London theatre at its best.
E Reviewed on 26 September 2025 by Elly
United Kingdom
verified
Excellent actingWill make you think - have to get tuned into the accents but worth seeing.
A Reviewed on 25 September 2025 by Anna
United Kingdom
verified
Fantastic thought provoking productionPunch was a really interesting, thought provoking story, that was told, on stage, with clarity and compassion. The acting, from each of the 6 actors was outstanding. The energy and emotion was evident throughout and took the audience through all the drama and horror of the situation, with an unlikely uplifting ending.
C Reviewed on 24 September 2025 by Clare
United Kingdom
verified
Top classExcellent performance and storyline. The acting was top class and its hard to select a particular person as all actors gave it their all. The storyline resonates to us all regardless to our race and economic standing in life and its a good starting point for discussions with underserved members of our community. Must mention...Theatre manager and staff so helpful, as a member of our party is disabled, they went above and beyond to ensure she was comfortable. Thanks a lot.
C Reviewed on 23 September 2025 by Claudia
United States Of America
verified
James Graham on fantastic formWonderful,play about the underlying social,issues leading to gang violence and in this case death. So insightful.
A Reviewed on 27 April 2025 by Angela
United Kingdom
verified
Heart-wrenchingly brilliantIncredible writing. Intense production. Multi-layered characters. Heart-breaking story. Amazing performances all round.
V Reviewed on 01 April 2025 by Victoria
United Kingdom
2025

Review: PUNCH at Apollo Theatre
by Stuart King | Monday, September 29 2025, 08:05
PUNCH — Nottingham Playhouse’s transfer to the Young Vic garnered such a raft of plaudits earlier in the year, that it has been given a further lease of life in the West End. Its run at the Apollo on Shaftesbury Avenue, is scheduled to continue until 29th November.
David Shields as Jacob Dunne in Punch. Photo by Marc Brenner
2025

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The days are beginning to draw in and Autumn is on the horizon. With a new month on its way, there’s an exciting range of new shows heading into the city. From exciting revivals like The Lady from the Sea and highly-anticipated West End transfers like Punch- we’re sharing the 10 shows you need to watch out for in September.
2025

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2025

PUNCH to transfer to the West End this Autumn
by Emmie Newitt | Tuesday, April 1 2025, 13:30
'James Graham's most moving work yet' (The Times) announces the transfer after two sold-out runs at the Nottingham Playhouse and Young Vic.
David Shields as Jacob Dunne in Punch. Photo by Marc Brenner
2025

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by Emmie Newitt | Monday, March 10 2025, 14:15
Need inspiration for what to see in London this March? With incredible productions hitting the stage, we’ve rounded up seven must-see shows you should grab tickets for right now!
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