The highly anticipated stage production Stranger Things: The First Shadow made its grand debut in New York City on April 22, 2025, at the Marquis Theater. This prequel to the beloved television series Stranger Things invites audiences to explore the origins of key characters and events in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, during the year 1959.
The story follows a teenaged Jim Hopper, played by Burke Swanson. He forms a gang with his pals Joyce Maldonado, played by Alison Jaye, and Bob Newby, played by Juan Carlos. Together, they navigate the unique challenges of adolescence while uncovering haunting secrets that are determining their town’s future. The play explores the dark origin story of Henry Creel. It offers fascinating new details about one of the series’ most enigmatic figures.
They’ve assembled an exceptional cast of talents. Rosie Benton is Virginia Creel, Alex Breau as Dr. Brenner and Andrew Hovelson as Principal Newby. T.R. Knight stars as Victor Creel, Gabrielle Nevaeh as Patty Newby. Louis McCartney returns to reprise his role as Henry Creel. Fans of the West End production will enjoy the continuity he brings to this captivating origin story.
The creative team behind Stranger Things: The First Shadow features an impressive lineup of talent. The production’s mood board collection and set design is by Miriam Buether, and it is dreamlike, with suitably ethereal costumes by Brigitte Reiffenstuel. The lighting and sound design is by Jon Clark and Paul Arditti, respectively. Original music composition, orchestration, arrangements and supervision by D.J. Walde shape the production with shadowy sonic tension.
The Duffer Brothers, Jack Thorne, and Kate Trefry crafted this amazing story. The series has received widespread acclaim for its captivating narrative and deep, rich characters. The production is directed with stylish precision by Stephen Daldry. To this end, co-director Justin Martin is right there with him, creating a perfect combination of narrative depth and visual wow factor.
The path to this premiere began with previews that started on March 28, 2023. All of that culminated in a triumphant premiere in London this December, 2023. Since then, excitement has simmered beneath the surface as fans clamored to step foot in this exciting new chapter of the Stranger Things universe.
When the lights went down and the curtain went up on opening night, the audience was treated to an unforgettable performance. Yet it remained wonderfully loyal to the spirit of the original show, even providing deeper understanding of its popular, already well-established characters. The play’s complex narrative and vibrant, kinetic performances invite first timers and returning fans into a world you’ll never want to leave.