Broken Legs Blog

“Punch”, the latest play from Nottinghamshire playwright James Graham, tells the true story of Jacob Dunne, who killed paramedic James Hodgkinson after a random one-punch attack. The play explores the moments leading up to this horrific action, and the aftermath as Jacob participates in the Restorative Justice scheme, which puts him in touch with the victim’s parents.

The play stars David Shields as Jacob, who plays the character arc of villain to redeemed incredibly well, creating a likeable-yet-dangerous character who is able to bring the audience along on the journey whilst also keeping them at arms length. All aspects of Jacob’s life are explored, as the writer, actors and audience try to understand Jacob’s motivations for the attack. We see snippets of Jacob’s childhood, as he is diagnosed with autism, as his mother (Emma Pallant) develops a drinking problem, and as he is slowly indoctrinated into the gang lifestyle of the Meadows.

The play never tries to make excuses for Jacob’s actions, and doesn’t present him as a sympathetic character. In fact, the opening scene presents Jacob and his friends as the type of blokes you would rather avoid, high on drugs, quick to turn to violence, and every sentence punctuated with several swear words. But by the end of the play, the audience can’t help feeling a little sorry for him.

The other side of the story focuses on James’ parents Joan (Julie Hesmondhalgh) and David (Tony Hirst), from the moment they first hear about the attack, through to their decision to participate in Restorative Justice in order to understand more about their son’s killer. The play takes its time to explain the RJ programme, and goes into great detail on the lengthy two-year process that results in Joan and David coming face-to-face with Jacob. Their eventual meeting is a true highlight of the play, with each of the main characters harbouring their own reservations and fears that creates an incredibly tense atmosphere and leaves the audience holding their breaths.

The set design is simple – an underpass that accurately represents parts of the Meadows that any local would recognise. Whilst this gives the characters multiple levels to play on, the focus is always on the characters rather than their surroundings, as it should be. The script is peppered with Nottingham references, which is a joy for anyone who knows the area well, but shouldn’t detract too much for those who don’t.

The rest of the cast, which includes Alec Boaden and Shalisha James-Davis, play multiple roles which help to tell Jacob’s story. Some of the character changes come thick and fast, and the quick turnarounds for some of the actors are remarkable. Every scene feels important in helping us understand Jacob’s life – although one scene where Jacob’s younger brother comes out as gay sticks out as feeling a little shoehorned.

The final scene where Jacob asks Joan and David for forgiveness is sure to leave the audience divided – but thankfully it leaves the characters divided too, showing that there is no correct way to deal with this situation. It is sure to leave audience members with lots of questions as they try to put themselves in Joan and David’s horrific situation.

The play is, quite simply, a masterpiece. An extraordinary example of how powerful theatre can be, and surely one of James Graham’s best pieces of theatre (although he has a lot to choose from). Graham worked with the real-life Jacob, David and Joan, and their influences are clear to see. This play is respectful yet truthful for all parties involved. It simply presents the story and allows you to form your own opinions. Important, heart-breaking and not to be missed.

Tom Morley, May 2024