Jane Thornton and Martha Godber
John Godber Company with One Punch Hull
HOME Manchester
February 12-15, 2025; 1 hr, no interval
One Punch is a powerful short drama prompted by a single event: a single-punch, fatal attack.
Writers Jane Thornton and Martha Godber have worked closely with the parents of one victim, Scott Akester, to create a powerful, 60-minute theatre work inspired by the events that led to Scott's death - from a cause far from unique.
The story is told through the lens of three paramedics, played by Ellis Basford, Camille Hainsworth-Staples and George Reid, who also take all the other roles, including that of the victim, Rhys, his friends and family, and crucially Rhys‘s best mate Connor, the assailant.
The writing and delivery, directed by co-writer Jane Thornton, has pace, rhythm and power. Dialogue is down to earth, recognisable and rooted in every day life, as we see Rhys developing confidence and responsibility in his role as a young father and provider. Theatrical devices of rhyme, chorus, and movement add to the power of the story without overwhelming the naturalistic style.
All three actors successfully move between roles and styles, and demand audience attention throughout. The approach is highly accessible, underpinned by the strength of their stage skills. Ellis Basford’s professional debut as Rhys is a confident portrayal of a young man negotiating conflicting loves and loyalties.
The audience at HOME on press night was able to meet Scott Akester’s parents during a post-show question and answer session. They have set up One Punch Hull as an educational charity, promoting an understanding of how dangerous a single punch can be, and advocating for alternative thoughts and actions, addressing young people in particular.
The play is presented at HOME to gather support from traditional theatre audiences. The play needs to be seen in schools to add to the work that One Punch Hull is undertaking.
There used to be funding for this sort of work. I recall once seeing M6 Theatre Company deliver a high-impact piece on drink-driving in the school where I worked.
Scott‘s parents will be attending Friday and Saturday performances and will be willing to speak to audience members afterwards, without the formality of a stage based Q&A session.
This is a play worth seeing, though the full price ticket might be a barrier for a mere one hour performance.
Though only 60 minutes long, the play has a powerful impact, which is unlikely to disappear. It is also another powerful reminder of the strength we have so often seen from parents who suddenly lose a child to violence.
More info and tickets here
