NEWS: Celebration of Punch in Parliament

The event at the House of Commons was an opportunity to recognise the talent and economic impact of the creative industries, whilst also highlighting the power of storytelling to raise the profile of issues such as restorative justice.

Speakers included playwright James Graham (Best of Enemies, Dear England, Sherwood); Lilian Greenwood MP; Kate Pakenham of KPPL Productions, who have supported Punch at the Young Vic through fundraising for wrap-around engagement, and Stephanie Sirr MBE, Chief Executive of Nottingham Playhouse. Guests included Lord James Timpson, Minister of State for Prisons; Nica Burns, Co-owner of Nimax; Claire Walker, CEO of SOLT/UK Theatre; Jacob Dunne (writer of Right from Wrong on which Punch is based); Joan Scourfield, mother of James Hodgkinson; Sandra Barefoot, The Forgiveness Project and East Midlands Mayor, Claire Ward.

Lilian Greenwood MP said in her speech:

“Theatre like this isn’t just a nice to have, it’s an absolute necessity … You’ve already heard what an enormous economic contribution that arts and culture make. This is going to the States, it’s part of enhancing our reputation around the world.

“Drama like this really, really matters. I couldn’t be prouder to represent the city that produced it and nourishes talent and allows young people to see the possibilities.” 

Stephanie Sirr MBE, Chief Executive of Nottingham Playhouse, said:

“Punch continues to affect and influence people because it’s an entertaining and gripping piece of theatre which addresses some of the most pressing societal issues today; the state of prisons; the impact of poverty on communities; the disconnection of young men from society. And it does so through a very personal story, a heart-breaking tragedy from which something redemptive and deeply human is salvaged.

“It was a pleasure to get so many interested parties in one room with a desire to make change. And to demonstrate what theatre can be, in a social and educational context.”