Written by BAFTA winner Jane Thornton and Martha Godber, One Punch is a compelling new drama from the John Godber Company. The play, inspired by real events, was developed in collaboration with the charity One Punch Hull, which raises awareness of the devastating consequences of single-punch attacks. Following successful runs in East Yorkshire, the production arrived at HOME Manchester, aiming to bring its hard-hitting message to a wider audience.
At the heart of One Punch is a night out that spirals into catastrophe. The story follows Reece, a young father celebrating his birthday with his best friend Connor. What begins as a routine night of drinks, laughter, and revelry takes a tragic turn when an alcohol-fuelled moment of anger results in a single punch that alters lives forever. Told through the perspective of three paramedics who take on multiple roles—including the victim, his loved ones, and the perpetrator—the play captures the ripple effects of violence, exploring themes of masculinity, responsibility, and loss.
The production embraces minimalism with a stripped-back set consisting of beer crates and police tape, allowing the raw intensity of the story to take centre stage. Lighting is used effectively to shift between moments of levity and tragedy, emphasizing the emotional beats of the narrative. The use of slow-motion choreography in key scenes adds a haunting, visceral quality to the depiction of violence, making the audience feel the weight of every action. Costumes remain naturalistic, reinforcing the play’s realism and relatability.
The three-actor ensemble—Ellis Basford, Camille Hainsworth-Staples, and George Reid—delivers an outstanding performance, seamlessly switching between multiple characters with clarity and depth. Basford, making his professional debut, is particularly impressive as Reece, capturing the complexities of a young man balancing fatherhood, friendship, and personal aspirations. Hainsworth-Staples and Reid demonstrate exceptional versatility, bringing each character to life with authenticity and nuance. Their dynamic physical performances and rhythmic dialogue keep the audience engaged from start to finish.
One Punch is a powerful and affecting piece of theatre that delivers a crucial message with impact and urgency. The combination of humour, realism, and physical storytelling ensures that the play remains engaging while never losing sight of its devastating core. Though just 60 minutes long, it lingers in the mind long after the final scene, serving as a stark reminder of how a single moment can change everything. A gripping, thought-provoking and important production, it deserves to be seen by as many people as possible, particularly young audiences who may benefit most from its sobering message.
One Punch is at Home Manchester until Saturday 15th February 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.
Photo Credit - Ian Hodgson & John Godber Company
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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