A drama penned by successful Kirkby playwright James Graham is to transfer to London.

Punch, which tells the story of how a single blow had fatal consequences, played to sell-out audiences at Nottingham Playhouse.

Now it will run at the prestigious Young Vic Theatre, London, from 1st March to 12th April next year.

Olivier Award-winning James, perhaps best known for the TV show Sherwood, is a former Ashfield School pupil who grew up in Kirkby.

Punch is based on the book Right from Wrong, by Jacob Dunne. It tells a true story of tragedy, forgiveness, redemption, and reform — and sparked discussions across the country from theatres to courthouses to the House of Commons.

The drama is a true-life account of how Nottingham teenager Jacob throws a single punch – with fatal consequences. Released from prison, the parents of the victim ask to meet him. Their quest for answers results in an unlikely connection and Jacob’s life begins to turn around.

James said: “This play and the incredible story it tells could not mean more to me. It feels like one of the most moving and urgent real-life dramas I’ve had the honour of translating to the stage.

“Despite its important themes of justice, forgiveness, and the human cost of a decade of neglect in these communities, I’m so proud of the surprisingly funny and oddly hopeful show that (director) Adam Penford and the cast have built.

“I’ve never not watched without ugly crying and can’t wait to share it with a wider audience.”

Original cast members Julie Hesmondhalgh (Coronation Street, Mr Bates vs The Post Office), Tony Hirst (Coronation Street, Hollyoaks) and David Shields (Masters of the Air, Black Mirror) will reprise their roles as Joan, David and Jacob, respectively.

Adam, also Nottingham Playhouse artistic director, added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing Punch to the Young Vic, a venue that, like Nottingham Playhouse, has its community at its heart — and to give more people the opportunity to experience this unforgettable story.

“Punch had a profound impact in Nottingham because the story is so moving, and asks important questions about what it means to be human and what kind of society we want to live in. Our audience and supporters really got behind the production.

“It’s particularly pertinent as we enter a new political chapter in the UK. James’s expert writing, with its trademark wit, humanity, and storytelling skill, is a joy to stage. And working with the real-life people who feature in the play has been an unforgettably humbling experience for all of us.”

Young Vic artistic director Kwame Kwei-Armah said “Punch was an incredibly moving, heartwarming, and gut-wrenching play.

“It’s an extraordinary story, both on and off the page, and like the very best theatre, it reflects humanity and transcends the stage,” he added.

“It has captured hearts and minds across the country, resonating not only with local communities but in national politics with recommendations by MPs in the House of Commons.

“We are proud to be staging this production from the brilliant Nottingham Playhouse. This is vital viewing, I urge you to see it.”

The production is dedicated to James Hodgkinson and all victims of one-punch.