Plays

Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets

Step into 1959 Hawkins with Stranger Things: The First Shadow, the West End play from Netflix’s blockbuster creators, where thrills, scares, and award-winning stagecraft await.

4.8/5(983)

Alexandra G

Solo

Verified booking

2 days ago

The special effects were absolutely incredible, and the actors were excellent. The staging was very impressive, with some spectacular moments that were hard to believe were happening live on a theatre stage. However, I was a little disappointed by the pacing. I found the first half quite long, with a lot of dialogue and many scenes set at school. At times, it felt as though the story was not moving forward. I was hoping the second half would be more dynamic, but unfortunately, I found it rather slow as well. I was expecting more action, tension, suspense, and scary moments—something closer to the atmosphere and energy of the *Stranger Things* series. There were a few frightening moments, but they were quite brief and only happened occasionally. I also found that the actor playing Henry Creel did not always speak loudly enough, which sometimes made his lines difficult to hear. The language barrier may have affected my experience too (I am French), as some characters spoke very quickly or at the same time, especially during the school scenes, so I didn’t always understand every line. Overall, the production was visually spectacular and the cast was excellent, but the story felt too long and not fast-paced enough. I left feeling a little disappointed because I had expected something more intense, frightening, and immersive.

Mrs Lydia J

Group

Verified booking

Last week

Absolutely amazing show! We're huge fans of Stranger Things and have enjoyed all the series as a family. To see the prequel and the characters we know so well in their younger years was brilliant - particularly enjoyed young Ted and Karen!. The special effects were mind blowing. I honestly didn't know whether I was watching real people or special effects at times. The rotating stage gave a constant pace and sense of movement, the actors were utterly committed; I must say it was a relief to see them all smiling at the curtain call. It was the right side of scary to remain a family show. We loved it!

Natasha L

Couple

Verified booking

5 days ago

Phenomenal performance!!! The acting, props, backgrounds, lighting and smells were fantastic. It gave a 3/4D effect, hitting all the senses and making us audience feel things were really there and coming out at us. When there were explosions I could feel the wind from the blast, the smells of burning and smoke. Standing ovation and hats off to all the performers, fantastic acting; and behind the scenes employees who made the performance with the lighting, sounds, costumes. Everyone deserves a standing ovation for this. I've already recommended the show. Well done!

Fabio M

Couple

Verified booking

Jul 2026

Despite the long duration of the show, the action never lost intensity. Set design, pacing and dialogue taken care of in every detail. Although the language was not our native, we found no problems in understanding the plot and nuances of the different characters. A very significant moment for the experience, was when the scientists entered from the back, walked through the entire theater and “opened” the stage scene, breaking any distance between audience and action.

Based on Netflix’s iconic series, Stranger Things: The First Shadow brings Hawkins to life in a play blending sci-fi, drama, and suspense in London’s West End.

Crafted by multi-award-winning creatives Kate Trefry, the Duffer Brothers, Jack Thorne, and director Stephen Daldry, this is your chance to see "breathtaking theatre" (The Guardian).

Explore themes of family, fear, and hidden powers, enhanced by immersive set design, strobe effects, haze, explosions, and masterful visual illusions.

Experience an original prequel story with young Jim Hopper, Bob Newby, and Joyce Maldonado, playing exclusively at the Phoenix Theatre. Book your Stranger Things: The First Shadow tickets now!

The story

Set in 1959, Hawkins faces secrets long buried as young Jim Hopper, Bob Newby, and Joyce Maldonado navigate small-town life. When Henry Creel and his family arrive seeking a fresh start, the shadows of the past begin to stir, revealing hidden powers and dark mysteries. Stranger Things: The First Shadow uncovers the origins of a story fans thought they knew. Can Hawkins survive what’s coming next?

Critics reviews

"A new chapter in theatre. It's out of the world"

-London Theatre

"The First Shadow is a scintillating experience"

-Metro

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

983 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Germany, United States, France and over 54 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Mrs Lydia J
Group
Verified booking
Last week
Absolutely amazing show! We're huge fans of Stranger Things and have enjoyed all the series as a family. To see the prequel and the characters we know so well in their younger years was brilliant - particularly enjoyed young Ted and Karen!. The special effects were mind blowing. I honestly didn't know whether I was watching real people or special effects at times. The rotating stage gave a constant pace and sense of movement, the actors were utterly committed; I must say it was a relief to see them all smiling at the curtain call. It was the right side of scary to remain a family show. We loved it!
Fabio M
Couple
Verified booking
Jul 2026
Despite the long duration of the show, the action never lost intensity. Set design, pacing and dialogue taken care of in every detail. Although the language was not our native, we found no problems in understanding the plot and nuances of the different characters. A very significant moment for the experience, was when the scientists entered from the back, walked through the entire theater and “opened” the stage scene, breaking any distance between audience and action.
Lieve W
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
When the intro was on and the theme song came on I had immediate chills. The way they made a play out of stranger things is so cool. The effects and on stage action was breath taking and exciting to watch. I would definitely go again, even if I saw it already.
Camattini G
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
Beautiful, captivating, and thrilling from the very moment we sat down. I highly recommend it. I can't wait to tell our friends about it and share this experience with them. Thank you, London, for this evening.
Tracy C
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
Highly highly recommend seeing this play when you're in London! It was so good! We were in the 2nd level middle aisle and it was perfect seats! Special eefetswere great and the actors were amazing!!!

Show details

Categories: Play, Fantasy, Drama, Stars on stage, Critics' choice

Audience: Suitable for 12+

Theater name: Phoenix Theatre

Find the best seats in the house with the Phoenix Theatre seating plan

Theater facilities: Bar, cloakroom, restrooms

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

Dress Code: Smart casual

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

Additional tips

This show is recommended for ages 12 years and above. Children under 5 years will not be permitted inside the theatre.

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.

Keep in mind, most theaters are air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

Frequently asked questions about Stranger Things: The First Shadow

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

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

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

A: The show is playing at the Phoenix Theatre.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show lasts for about 3 hours, including one intermission.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: Dive into Hawkins’ dark past as Henry Creel’s early experiments with supernatural powers unravel, setting the stage for the Stranger Things universe.

Q: Is the show connected to the Netflix series?

A: Yes, it’s a prequel to the Stranger Things series, exploring the origins of the Upside Down and Henry Creel’s dark powers.

Q: Are there any special effects in the show?

A: Yes, the production features immersive lighting, sound effects, and stagecraft that bring the Upside Down and supernatural elements to life.

Q: Can fans of the TV series expect familiar characters?

A: While the show focuses on the prequel timeline, it introduces early versions of key characters and the mysterious forces behind Hawkins’ strange events.

Q: Is there a recommended way to experience the show?

A: Arrive early to soak in the atmospheric set and visuals, and keep an eye out for Easter eggs connecting to the original Netflix series.