The world of Stranger Things has expanded beyond the confines of Hawkins, Indiana, and into the realm of live theater. Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a prequel stage play, is now captivating audiences on Broadway at the Marquis Theatre, with its official opening on April 22, 2025. The production had its first performance on March 28, 2025, and has already garnered attention for its intricate storytelling and impressive stagecraft.
Set in 1959, the play delves into the origins of several beloved characters from the Netflix series, including Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, and Bob Newby. It also explores the early life of Henry Creel, who eventually becomes the formidable antagonist known as Vecna. The narrative offers a fresh perspective on these characters, providing fans with a deeper understanding of their backstories.
The creative team behind the play includes Stranger Things creators and executive producers Matt and Ross Duffer, writer Kate Trefry, and playwright Jack Thorne. The production is directed by Tony Award winner Stephen Daldry, with co-direction by Justin Martin. Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions are the primary producers, ensuring that the theatrical adaptation aligns with the tone and themes of the original series.
In a recent documentary titled Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, viewers are given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the play. The documentary reveals that the Duffer Brothers requested significant revisions to the script to prevent potential spoilers for the upcoming fifth season of the Stranger Things series. Approximately 80% of the original material was altered or removed to maintain narrative consistency across both the play and the television series .
Playwright Kate Trefry, who has been a part of the Stranger Things writing team since season 2, shared insights into the challenges of adapting the show’s cinematic elements for the stage. She emphasized the limitations of live theater, noting that techniques like close-ups and montages are not feasible in a stage setting. This necessitated creative solutions to convey the show’s signature suspense and emotional depth without relying on filmic conventions.
The cast of The First Shadow brings the characters to life with compelling performances. Burke Swanson portrays Jim Hopper, Jr., while Alison Jaye takes on the role of Joyce Maldonado. Louis McCartney reprises his acclaimed performance as Henry Creel from the West End production. Other notable cast members include Rosie Benton as Virginia Creel, T.R. Knight as Victor Creel, and Alex Breaux as Dr. Brenner . The ensemble cast comprises 34 actors, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Hawkins’ past.
The production’s design elements are equally impressive. Set designer Miriam Buether has created a visually striking environment that captures the essence of 1950s small-town America while incorporating the eerie atmosphere characteristic of the Stranger Things universe. Costume designer Brigitte Reiffenstuel and lighting designer Jon Clark further enhance the immersive experience, transporting audiences to a time and place where ordinary life intertwines with the extraordinary.
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For those unable to attend the live performance, Netflix offers a documentary titled Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, providing an in-depth exploration of the play’s production. The documentary features interviews with the creative team and cast, offering viewers a glimpse into the artistic process behind bringing Hawkins to the stage.
As the play continues its Broadway run, fans of the Stranger Things series have the opportunity to experience a new chapter in the franchise’s narrative. The First Shadow not only enriches the lore of Hawkins but also showcases the versatility of the Stranger Things universe in captivating new formats.
Tickets for Stranger Things: The First Shadow are available through the official website, with performances scheduled throughout the week at the Marquis Theatre. For more information on showtimes and ticket availability, visit StrangerThingsBroadway.com
