Stranger Things: The First Shadow - Tickets

4.8(733 ratings)

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Plays Drama Fantasy Stars on Stage Critics' Choice

Phoenix Theatre

Stranger Things: The First Shadow stage show poster with silhouette and shadow

Three people sitting on stage in front of green curtains, part of "Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Control room scene from Stranger Things: The First Shadow with characters and vintage monitors.

Man in pajamas near Henderson Liquors sign, couple embracing, Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Group of students in a school setting, one standing on a chair, from Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Two people in a dimly lit room with candles, one blindfolded, from "Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Police officers in a tense scene from "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" stage production.

Young person sitting on a table in a tiled room, part of Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Man facing cracked mirror with reflection, Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Three actors on stage in a scene from "Stranger Things: The First Shadow," with one holding a device.

Two actors on stage in a scene from "Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Family with suitcases on stage in "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" performance.

Man tending to a person on the floor with wires nearby in Stranger Things: The First Shadow scene.

Three people holding flashlights in a dark setting, related to Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Person standing under blue smoke in a dramatic scene from Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

DURATION

3 hr with interval

AGE LIMIT

Suitable for 12+ yrs

from

£43.75

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AboutVenueTicketsReviews

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: Shane Attwooll as Chief Hopper, Jessica Rhodes as Joyce Maldonado, Louis Healy as Henry Creel, Ammar Duffus as Charles Sinclair, Matthew Pidgeon as Principle Newby, Rhianna Dorris as Sue Anderson, Jack Crumlin as Lonnie Byers, Callum Maxwell as Bob Newby, Barney Wilkinson as Ted Wheeler, Karen Childress as Edie Wright, Allen Munson as Michael Murray, Andy Langtree as Victor Creel, George Smale as James Hopper Jr, Jack Gardner as Walter Henderson, Claudia Yount as Betsy Mayle, Luke Mullins as Dr Brenner, Lauren O’Neil as Virginia Creel, Miranda Mufema as Patty 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

Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.

Age & content guide

This show is recommended for ages 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.
Content warning: 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.
Please keep in mind that most theaters do not have an age classification organization. This means that all age recommendations are subjective. Please use your judgment while purchasing tickets for any show.

Phoenix Theatre Read more

The Phoenix Theatre an iconic venue on Charing Cross Road in London's West End, first opened its doors in 1930 with its distinctive neoclassical exterior. With a comfortable seating capacity and grand allure, this historic theatre has hosted numerous acclaimed productions and legendary performers throughout its nearly century-old history, including Laurence Olivier, Cuba Gooding Jr., and works by theatre luminaries like Noël Coward and Stephen Sondheim.

Phoenix Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.

Getting there

Address: Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0JP, United Kingdom
Tube: Tottenham Court Road (Central and Northern Line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly Line)
Bus: Bus lines servicing the area include Tottenham Court Road - 14, 24, 29, 134, Charing Cross Road - 14, 19, 24, 38, 176

Facilities & accessibility

Available facilities: Bar, cloakroom, restrooms

Accessibility: Guide dogs allowed, accessible toilets, wheelchair spaces, guide dogs allowed, assistive listening system

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.

Tickets redemption

You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!

Cancellation & refunds

Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.

Ratings & reviews

4.8

733 ratings

628

Hamelin

Apr 2026Verified booking

5/5

An absolutely unforgettable experience at the Stranger Things theater in London! It was a dream come true for my 15-year-old daughter, who loves theater and is a huge fan of the show… and that dream far exceeded all our expectations ✨ As for me, I was a little apprehensive: a three-hour show while having limited mobility wasn’t going to be a walk in the park. And yet… everything was perfect. The venue, the atmosphere, the staging, the effects… everything was spectacular. I particularly enjoyed the intermission, which gave us a chance to catch our breath, but more importantly, to extend this incredible immersion. A breathtaking show—without a doubt our most beautiful memory of London ❤️ I recommend it 100%!

View original review in French

Laetitia

Apr 2026Verified booking

5/5

An incredible show, with breathtaking special effects! And as huge fans of the Stranger Things series, we have answers to some of your questions. If you're still wondering whether it's worth seeing, don't hesitate!

View original review in French

Francesca

Apr 2026Verified booking

5/5

Thrilling with jumpscares brilliant plot and performance. A really unique play. Would love to Watch it all over again to be able to take in every singole thing.

Kristin

Apr 2026Verified booking

5/5

It was a captivating story, and it was performed brilliantly with stunning effects! The service at the venue was also excellent!

View original review in German

Heiko

Apr 2026Verified booking

5/5

This play was incredible—I've never experienced anything like it. It's a real treat for Stranger Things fans. At the end, everyone stood up, with tears in their eyes—including me. Sensational. Sure, the tickets aren't exactly cheap, but it was totally worth the trip.

View original review in German

Frequently asked questions about Stranger Things: The First Shadow

How much do the Stranger Things: The First Shadow tickets cost?

The cost of the tickets starts from £37.50 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.

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.

Who plays the main characters on stage?

The cast includes Shane Attwooll as Chief Hopper, Jessica Rhodes as Joyce Maldonado, and Louis Healy as Henry Creel, supported by a large ensemble of talented performers.

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.