Stranger Things: The First Shadow West End – A Must-See Prequel to the Hit Netflix Series
"THE WEST END THEATRE EVENT OF THE YEAR" (DAILY TELEGRAPH)
From the minds behind Netflix’s global hit Stranger Things and the multi-award-winning Broadway producer Sonia Friedman Productions comes Stranger Things: The First Shadow. A groundbreaking new play that transports audiences into the eerie, thrilling world of Hawkins, 1959. If you're a fan of Stranger Things, or even just a lover of immersive theatre, this gripping prequel is one production you won’t want to miss.
What is Stranger Things: The First Shadow About?
Set in the quiet, unassuming town of Hawkins, Stranger Things: The First Shadow takes audiences on a journey back to the origins of the Stranger Things universe, well before Eleven’s arrival and the supernatural events that would soon follow. The year is 1959, and Hawkins is still a town like any other, struggling with its everyday worries. Young Jim Hopper faces the frustration of a broken-down car, Bob Newby’s radio show isn’t getting the attention it deserves, and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and escape this sleepy town.
But things begin to change when new student Henry Creel arrives with his mysterious family, unknowingly ushering in a new wave of strange occurrences. The arrival of the Creels sets off a chain of events that unveils long-buried secrets, hinting that the town's past holds darker, more dangerous forces than anyone could have imagined.
This stand-alone adventure serves as a prequel to the Stranger Things series, offering fans a deeper understanding of the characters and the sinister forces that would eventually consume Hawkins. The show is full of the suspense, supernatural twists, and compelling character development that made Stranger Things a global phenomenon.
Who is Behind Stranger Things: The First Shadow?
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is brought to life by an extraordinary creative team. Directed by Stephen Daldry, known for his work on The Crown, Billy Elliot, The Inheritance, The Hours, and The Reader, the production boasts high-calibre direction that guarantees a gripping and immersive experience. Co-directed by Justin Martin, whose work on Prima Facie and The Inheritance has also garnered acclaim, the production team ensures that The First Shadow stays true to the heart of Stranger Things while giving audiences something fresh and exciting.
The team is further bolstered by an award-winning group of designers, lighting specialists, and choreographers, with the show recently winning multiple prestigious awards. These accolades include two Olivier Awards for Best Entertainment and Best Set Design, as well as Critics' Circle Awards for Best Set Design and Most Promising Newcomer, proving that Stranger Things: The First Shadow is an essential part of the West End theatre scene.
What to Expect from Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Fans of the Stranger Things series will be captivated by this chilling prequel, which delves into the origins of the Upside Down and the creepy occurrences that would eventually define Hawkins. Expect the show's signature blend of suspense, supernatural elements, and emotional depth, all brought to life with stunning special effects and immersive performances.
The production’s set design, which won the Olivier Award for Best Set Design, is nothing short of spectacular. It masterfully evokes the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins, blending nostalgia for the late 1950s with a sense of impending doom. The effects are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat, as the show’s visual storytelling is as much a part of the experience as its gripping plot and unforgettable performances.
How Long is Stranger Things: The First Shadow?
Stranger Things: The First Shadow runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. The show is fast-paced and filled with suspense, ensuring that every moment feels impactful. The duration strikes the perfect balance, allowing the story to unfold gradually while keeping audiences hooked with intense action and captivating character development throughout.
Where is Stranger Things: The First Shadow Playing in the West End?
Stranger Things: The First Shadow has taken the West End by storm, and is currently playing at the renowned Phoenix Theatre in London. With the West End version already receiving rave reviews, it has become one of the hottest tickets in town. Its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and jaw-dropping visuals have made it a must-see production for theatre lovers and Stranger Things fans alike.
Given the success of the production and its recent string of award wins, it is expected that Stranger Things: The First Shadow will continue to draw large audiences, ensuring that Hawkins’ mysterious and dark history is brought to life for many more months to come.
Where Can I Buy Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets?
Tickets for Stranger Things: The First Shadow can be bought directly through London Theatre News, supplied by a STAR-authorised ticket seller. This ensures that you are purchasing from a trusted source, offering a seamless ticket-buying experience for one of the most anticipated shows in the West End. With demand high, securing your tickets in advance is highly recommended, ensuring that you won’t miss out on this unmissable production.
Why You Should See Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Whether you’re a Stranger Things devotee or a newcomer to the universe, The First Shadow is a must-see production. It combines the eerie, supernatural thrills of the Netflix series with a stellar theatre experience, filled with stunning effects and powerful performances. With the added prestige of winning two Olivier Awards, this is one of the biggest theatre events of the year and a must-experience for fans of both theatre and the Stranger Things series.
Book your tickets early, and prepare for an unforgettable night in Hawkins. Stranger Things: The First Shadow is not just a show; it’s an experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly waiting to uncover what mysteries await in the shadows.
