))
Behind the scenes of Punch: Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst on portraying real-life stories
Manage episode 491091603 series 3642778
Content provided by Jacob Dunne. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Jacob Dunne or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Welcome back to another episode of Right From Wrong. Today, I'm incredibly excited to bring you a profound and heart-touching conversation with two truly inspiring guests, Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst. Both actors have immersed themselves in the world of Punch, a play that is very close to my heart, portraying an immensely personal story of tragedy, accountability, and redemption.
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of storytelling and live theatre. Julie and Tony share their deep reflections on stepping into the roles of Joan and David, the parents of the man whose life was ended by my single, devastating punch. We delve into how embodying these characters has challenged and changed them, and how the story they help bring to life resonates on levels that are both deeply personal and universally human.
We also discuss the unique ways in which theatre can catalyse real-world change, reaching people not just intellectually but viscerally, as evidenced by the impact of our performances on audiences and even within the legal system. Moreover, we ponder the complexities and emotional landscapes of forgiveness, the immense courage it takes, and how restorative justice can transform lives—not just for those directly involved, but for communities as a whole.
Their insights underscore the remarkable journeys that people go through when faced with unimaginable pain and the paths they take toward healing and understanding. You’ll hear about moments of raw emotion, silent connections, and the ongoing dialogue that follows long after the curtains close.
This episode is a testament to the incredible power of empathy, and it will leave you reflecting on your own capacity for forgiveness and change. I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired me. So, without further ado, let's dive into this conversation with Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst. You won’t want to miss it.
Key Moments
00:03:23 Exploring the Impact of Punch. Julie and Tony share their reflections on being part of the play and how its impact has exceeded their expectations—not just personally, but socially as well.
00:04:45 The Power of True Stories. Tony talks about why real-life stories like mine resonate so deeply, challenging audiences and inspiring change because of their authenticity.
00:07:00 Theatre’s Real-Time Connection. Julie highlights the unique ability of live theatre to create an immediate, profound connection with the audience—something no other medium can replicate.
00:09:31 Preparing to Portray Real People. Julie and Tony explain how they approached their roles, focusing on empathy rather than imitation to ensure their performances truly honoured the people involved.
00:13:27 Carrying the Emotional Weight. Tony describes what it was like to perform highly sensitive scenes in front of the real people affected, and how it reinforced the responsibility of storytelling with integrity.
00:16:48 The Complexity of Forgiveness. Julie delves into how forgiveness is never simple or linear—it’s something people turn to out of necessity, survival, and a desire to heal.
00:18:06 What Forgiveness Means to Me. I share my personal experience with forgiveness—how my understanding of it has evolved, and why it’s often a bittersweet and deeply emotional journey.
00:19:58 Audience Reactions and Reflection. Tony describes the overwhelming responses from audiences—how each person engages with the play differently, but all come away emotionally and intellectually moved.
00:23:37 The Toughest Scenes for Me to Watch. I open up about the moments in the play that hit hardest—scenes that bring back painful memories but also show how far I’ve come in my journey.
00:27:08 Why Theatre Is So Powerful. Julie and Tony explain how theatre can express deep, complex emotions in ways other mediums can’t, creating a collective experience that lingers long after the show ends.
00:29:44 Using Drama to Explore Bigger Issues. Julie discusses how Punch goes beyond my personal story, tackling bigger themes like austerity, inequality, and the flaws in our justice system.
00:33:27 The Transformative Power of Dialogue. We reflect on how restorative justice and honest conversations—both on stage and in real life—can change perspectives and promote healing.
00:36:35 Continuing the Conversation. Sandra wraps up the discussion by encouraging people to keep engaging in these important conversations and to take the lessons of Punch beyond the theatre.
📲 Stay Connected and Join the Movement:
• Website: https://www.jacobdunne.co.uk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobfreeman/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacobfreeman
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacobfreeman/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RightFromWrongPodcast
🎧 Follow Right From Wrong
Join me as I explore stories of guilt, redemption, and the ripple effects of restorative justice. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement for accountability, empathy, and change.
📩 Get in Touch
Don’t just listen—be part of the conversation. Follow Right From Wrong to join the movement for a more compassionate and just society. If you’d like to collaborate or learn more, email me directly at [email protected].
Copyright 2025 Jacob Dunne
8 episodes
Share
