
Witness the story of young Jim Hopper, Bob Newby and Joyce Maldonado, as they navigate the regular worries of a small town in 1959. But when newcomer Henry Creel and his family try to start anew, they find that the shadows of the past are not so easily left behind. While the series takes place from 1983 – 1986, the play is a prequel, taking place in 1959. However you don't need to have seen all of Stranger Things to understand and enjoy the show, as The First Shadow can be treated as a phenomenal standalone piece of theatre.
Stranger Things took over Netflix, and the world, in 2016 and we have not looked back since. The world has been hooked on the show and it is fair to say it will go down as one of the greatest series in history. As for the stage show there is nothing quite like it. It is a frightening, immersive, nonstop thrill ride of a play that successfully transports audiences into the television series with its stunning illusions, masterfully crafted sets, and moving performances. It is an astounding, breathtakingly brilliant show with world class special effects.
The acting is also incredible, with characters ranging from the strange kids, popular kids, parents and beyond. Jessica Rhodes plays Joyce and nails her mix of bravado and vulnerability so well. George Smale captures the misunderstood young Hopper’s unfocussed energy, while Callum Maxwell is wonderfully endearing as Bob. Excellent too are Luke Mullins who plays a chillingly manipulative Dr Brenner. Whilst all the cast are all spectacular there is one performance that stands out and that part belongs to Louis Healy and his inspiringly impressive turn as Henry Creel. He is the main character of the show and the centrepiece of the story and what Louis does on that stage is nothing short of amazing.
There are so many reasons to love this brilliant show but visually this production pushes the perceived limits of what can be achieved in theatre and completely obliterates it - using state-of-the-art technology to produce the single most impressive show in the West End at the moment. Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher provide illusions and visual effects that constantly amaze creating pure theatre magic and the seamless way the live action mixes with these effects is quite simply awe-inspiring and have to be seen to be believed.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a must-see not just for superfans, but for anyone excited by boundary-pushing theatre that harnesses jaw-dropping special effects while telling a very relatable human story. It is an Immersive, heartfelt, and exhilarating must-see spectacle that is the most impressive show in the West End at the moment. It is out of this world - it is AMAZING!!!
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is currently playing at the Phoenix Theatre until 9 November 2025
Details
- Address:
- Phoenix Theatre
- WC2H 0JP
- Transport:
- Nearest underground or train station: Leicester Square (Piccadilly line, Northern line), Tottenham Court Road (Central line, Northern line) Nearest buses: 14, 19, 22b, 24, 38, 40, 176