Punch - ★★★★★ - Pace, power, and pathos in near perfection

James Graham’s telling of the story of Jacob Dunne never lets down for a moment and hits in all the right places, with a fantastic cast and production values up to the task. From fishing by the river, to a night at the Blue Bell, down the escape routes in the meadows, Punch is bursting with the life of Nottingham but is never isolating to the audience.

David Shields delivers an exhausting tour de force in the role of Jacob Dunne, bringing us into every state of mind as we experience his life. The story is inspiring and addictively engaging, the interval an unwelcome break from the action. Even in the brief moments of quiet the emotion never drops a notch.

A well known face amongst this cast, Julie Hesmondhalgh gives a fine portrayal as mum of victim James - one that certainly hits more towards the end of the second act - but Tony Hirst’s dad, while easy to hear, is noticeably more wooden by her side.

With a strong ensemble and Robbie Butler’s stunning lighting design every aspect of the play is loud, proud, and gorgeous as the lighting takes us from filthy nightclubs to a stunning halo of piercing light. A simple set gives not just a change in height but is used to great effect to move us from one location to another – the watchword here is simplicity, and the simple costume switches of jackets or lanyards or trackie bottoms are more than sufficient for our huge cast.

This incredible play is destined for a broader audience, and there are few seats left now, but if the opportunity arises to get a seat – in Nottingham or in London to no doubt come – grab it with both hands and hold on tight for a transformative ride.