A drama penned by Kirkby playwright James Graham is to transfer to the West End after sell-out shows in Nottingham and London.

Punch, which tells the story of how a single blow had fatal consequences, played to first Nottingham Playhouse and then, earlier this year, the Young Vic Theatre, London.

Now it will be performed for a 10-week run at the Apollo Theatre on the West End, from September.
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 in the House of Commons.

The drama is a true-life account of how Nottingham teenager Jacob throws a single punch — with fatal consequences.

When he is released from prison, the parents of the victim ask to meet him. Joan and David’s quest for answers results in an unlikely connection and Jacob’s life begins to turn around.

James said: “Having a further opportunity to see this Nottingham story on a national and now global stage is, on a personal level, a deeply moving and surprising turn of events.

“We want Punch to grab audiences and entertain them, but we’re also pleased to see it contributing to wider conversations about justice and masculinity.”