Duration
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
(557)
Agostino
Ramil
Carolina
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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.
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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).
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Explore themes of family, fear, and hidden powers, enhanced by immersive set design, strobe effects, haze, explosions, and masterful visual illusions.
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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
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 557 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.
4735516211Guests from United States, Germany, France and over 10 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Agostino
Jan 2026Verified booking
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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
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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.
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Director: Stephen Daldry
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Co-director: Justin Martin
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Producers: Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions
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Original story: Kate Trefry and The Duffer Brothers
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Playwright: Jack Thorne
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Choreographer: Coral Messam
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Movement directors: Lynne Page and Thomas Herron
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Music: D.J. Walde and Annabelle Lee Revak
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Set designers: Miriam Buether and Joana Dias
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Lighting designers: Jon Clark and Lucía Sánchez Roldán
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Sound designers: Paul Arditti, Rob Bettle and Christopher Reid
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Costume designers: Brigitte Reiffenstuel and Claire Murphy
Additional tips
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This show is recommended for ages 12 years and above. Children under 5 years will not be permitted inside the theatre.
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Adults must always accompany children under the age of 16 years.
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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.
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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.
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You will receive an email with your Stranger Things: The First Shadow voucher. Please display the same on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID.
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