A solitary punch can inflict how much harm? One Punch Wonder examines the devastating impact of alcohol-fuelled violence on countless young individuals, particularly men, in Australia over the past two decades. This powerful play scrutinises recorded deaths caused by a single punch, and includes victim impact interviews and CCTV footage as backdrop to a visceral and well-choreographed performance. Victims, perpetrators, and parents also contribute their perspectives. Initially, the media depicted these sudden attacks as ‘king hits’; it took a collaborative effort from legislators and courts to modify the language used. Words are important: One Punch Wonder recognises this and urges us to reflect on how we frame what it means to be a man and how we raise our boys. 

Set in a boxing ring, four actors set delve into the culture of toxic masculinity, contrasting a pub-centric portrayal of mateship, alcohol, and violence with a poignant exploration of loss through the eyes of grief-stricken family and friends. Straight up, this play should be compulsory curriculum viewing for students and their families in every high school across the country.

One Punch Wonder, Star Theatres, run ended.