Victoria Clark on Returning to Broadway in Punch and Discovering the Power of Restorative Justice

Tony Award winner Victoria Clark is making her return to Broadway in Punch, a gripping and deeply human drama based on true events. Speaking with Broadway Time during the show’s press day, Clark shared her excitement about returning to the stage so soon after her last acclaimed performance. “It feels amazing,” Clark said. “I didn’t think it would be this soon, but I’m really excited about it.”

The rehearsal process has been both inspiring and humbling for Clark, who praised the atmosphere in the room led by playwright James Graham and director Adam Penford. “It’s a brilliant room with really amazing, talented, generous people,” she said, noting the joy of working alongside lead actor Will Harrison. “We’re getting to know each other and diving into the script, it’s very exciting.”

Punch tells a story rooted in real-life tragedy, something that Clark says brings a unique responsibility to the cast. “When you play real people, there’s a certain amount of responsibility, even terror, that goes with it,” she explained. “You want to make sure you’re honoring the story with as much respect and depth as possible.”

One of the central themes in Punch is restorative justice, a concept Clark admits she knew little about before joining the production. “I think it’s a beautiful alternative to punitive justice,” she said. “Instead of isolating someone from society, restorative justice is about having conversations, facing the harm done, and taking responsibility. It’s been found to be more effective than incarceration because it allows for healing, self-esteem, and community.”

For Clark, Punch is not only a compelling piece of theater but also an opportunity to spark dialogue about forgiveness, renewal, and the ways we seek justice. “From something quite sad, there’s joy and release in telling the story,” she said.

For more informaiton on Punch visit www.manhattantheatreclub.com.