What age is the play appropriate for?

The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 12 years and above. Children under 5 years will not be permitted inside the theater. Adults must always accompany children under the age of 16 years. This production contains gunfire audio, loud noises and explosions, haze and smoke, flashing lights and strobe, and strong language. There are depictions of various mental health conditions and disorders.

Where is *Stranger Things: The First Shadow* playing in London?

The show is playing at the Phoenix Theatre in London

What is the play about?

The story is set in Hawkins, Indiana, in 1959 and follows young Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, and Bob Newby as they navigate small-town life. When newcomer Henry Creel arrives, dark secrets begin to surface, setting the stage for the supernatural events fans know from the series.

How long does the play run for?

The running time of the show is 3 hours, including one intermission.

Do I need to have seen the Netflix series to enjoy it?

No, the story is designed to be enjoyed by both newcomers and long-time fans. If you’re new, you’ll discover a gripping standalone mystery; if you’re a fan, you’ll spot clever nods and foreshadowing.

Will the story affect the future seasons of the Netflix series?

While the stage play is a prequel, it has been teased that it “may hold the key to the end” of Stranger Things. Fans can expect major revelations about Henry Creel and the Upside Down.

Does Stranger Things: The First Shadow offer group discounts?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more may be eligible for discounted rates, making it ideal for schools, corporate outings, and larger parties.

Which seats are best for Stranger Things: The First Shadow?

Stalls and the front of the Dress Circle offer some of the best views of the production's spectacular visual effects and stage illusions.

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Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Plays

Critics' ChoiceFantasyStars on StageDrama

Phoenix Theatre

Duration

2 hrs 30 mins with interval

Closing Date

Until December 23, 2026

Age limit

Suitable for 12+ yrs

Why Watch Stranger Things: The First Shadow?

Step into Hawkins, Indiana, 1959, in this gripping prequel to Netflix’s global hit series, which unfolds the chilling origins of the Stranger Things mythology.
Directed by Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Crown) and co-written by Jack Thorne (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), the show brings together a powerhouse creative team.
Mind-bending illusions, cinematic lighting, and a richly detailed set elevate the story far beyond a typical stage production, making this unmissable for both long-time fans and newcomers.
The show has cutting-edge visual effects and clever stagecraft to mirror the series’ signature suspense and supernatural atmosphere. Don't miss "the West End theatre event of the year” (The Daily Telegraph).
Presented at the historic Phoenix Theatre, this limited-run production in London is the most talked-about show of the year. Book your Stranger Things: The First Shadow tickets now!

Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a landmark theatrical prequel set within the world of Netflix’s acclaimed series. Written by Kate Trefry, Jack Thorne, and The Duffer Brothers, and directed by Stephen Daldry with co-direction by Justin Martin, the production takes audiences to 1959 Hawkins to uncover the roots of the Upside Down. The stellar cast includes Shane Attwooll as Chief Hopper, Jessica Rhodes as Joyce Maldonado, and Louis Healy as Henry Creel, supported by a distinguished creative team with set design by Miriam Buether and illusions by Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher. Produced by Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions, this play has redefined theatrical storytelling with its innovative staging, projection, and effects.

Storyline

The play transports audiences to Hawkins, Indiana, in 1959, a town navigating small-town worries and buried secrets. Young Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, and Bob Newby lead familiar lives until newcomer Henry Creel and his family arrive. As they try to start over, unsettling forces begin to stir. Past and present collide, setting the stage for the darkness that fans of the series will recognise. Stranger Things: The First Shadow lets you experience the untold origins that may hold the key to what lies ahead.

Show timings

Show timings for Stranger Things: The First Shadow may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.

Cast & Crew

Leading roles: Jack Christou as Henry Creel, Stewart Clarke as Dr. Brenner, Avril Maponga as Patty Newby, Max Potter as Bob Newby, Adam Wadsworth as James Hopper Jr., Edie Wright as Joyce Maldonado, Maximillian Graham as Alan Munson, Andrew Whipp as Chief Hopper, Andy Langtree as Victor Creel, Lauren O'Neil as Virginia Creel, Rufus Wright as Principal Newby
Director: Stephen Daldry
Co-director: Justin Martin
Producers: Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions
Original story: Kate Trefry and The Duffer Brothers
Playwright: Jack Thorne
Choreographer: Coral Messam
Movement directors: Lynne Page and Thomas Herron
Music: D.J. Walde and Annabelle Lee Revak
Set designers: Miriam Buether and Joana Dias
Lighting designers: Jon Clark and Lucía Sánchez Roldán
Sound designers: Paul Arditti, Rob Bettle and Christopher Reid
Costume designers: Brigitte Reiffenstuel and Claire Murphy

Phoenix Theatre

The Theatre Royal Haymarket London is a popular West End theatre located at the Haymarket in Westminster. Also called the Haymarket Theatre or the Little Theatre, this West End house’s origins can be traced back all the way to 1720. Officially the third oldest playhouse to still be active, Theatre Royal Haymarket has seen a lot of ownership changes and modifications. Being one of the oldest theatres in London, the Haymarket has a special role in bringing West End and musical theatre to the forefront. Seating Capacity: 893 Theatre Royal Haymarket Seating Plan will help you find the best seats in the theatre.

Getting There

Address: Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0JP, UK
By metro:
Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern Line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Line)
By bus:
Bus lines 3, 6, 12, 14, 15, 22, 23, 38, 88, 94, 159, and 453 ply to/from the Theatre Royal Haymarket Overground: Charing Cross Station

Facilities & Accessibility

Amenities: Dining outlets, Toilets, Cloak room

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed

Additional Information

Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.