Plays

Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets

Name: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Start: 2026-09-30T19:00:00
End: 2026-09-30T21:30:00
Location: Phoenix Theatre

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(1,050)

Wiebke S

Couple

Verified booking

5 days ago

Absolutely fantastic. The set, the actors, the sound. Unfortunately, our seats were at the very back, so we had a harder time seeing the upper part of the set, but it was incomparable nonetheless. Would watch it again. Thank you so much for the experience!

Nils B

Solo

Verified booking

4 days ago

I saw Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the theater and was very impressed overall. The production, the atmosphere, and the effects were truly extraordinary and brought the world of Stranger Things to life in a whole new way. The performance in English also worked well for me and captured the mood of the play very well. Unfortunately, my view of the stage was severely restricted as I could only see the bottom half. Most of the time, this wasn't a major issue because the plot and the most important scenes were still easy to understand. However, there were a few parts that took place exclusively in the upper part of the stage. Because of this, I unfortunately couldn't follow them at all or only partially, which detracted slightly from the experience. Despite this, I really enjoyed the play. The story, the actors, and the technical execution were truly worth seeing. I would definitely recommend it, but when choosing seats, I would make sure to have the best possible view of the entire stage.

Luca B

Couple

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

The show is really good and very well staged. The theatre itself is a beautiful and very special location, which adds a lot to the overall experience. However, the restricted view from the back is a bit more significant than you might expect, and unfortunately you cannot see everything that happens on stage. All in all, it is still a really special experience.

Adriene. Cowley

Couple

Verified booking

3 days ago

A different play a lot more modern but the technology excellent and well acted . You could hear a pin drop which is a good sign . Would definitely recommend .

Max S

Solo

Verified booking

Aug 2026

An absolutely incredible theatre experience! The Phoenix Theatre itself is a beautiful, historic theatre, and the view from my seat was excellent. The show had an amazing opening that immediately created a special atmosphere. When the ship appeared on stage, I was genuinely speechless. The production was simply breathtaking. The incredible effects, fantastic acting and perfectly fitting music made the entire experience incredibly immersive. I especially loved how there were so many connections and parallels to the original Stranger Things series, while the play still felt like its own story. During the performance, I completely forgot that I was watching a theatre production and not a movie. The slow-motion effect and the opening scene are moments that will stay with me for a very long time. Even now, they still leave me speechless. An absolute highlight and a must-see, especially for every Stranger Things fan!

Sabrina K

Solo

Verified booking

Aug 2026

It was a fantastic experience; the atmosphere of *Stranger Things* was captured very well. There was even plenty of humor, and a few of the series’ beloved characters made an appearance. The story itself was a bit lackluster and didn’t take enough risks, so in the end, the horror felt more like something out of a young adult novel. Still, I wouldn’t recommend the show for children. A family with two small children was sitting in front of me—that was irresponsible on the part of both the parents and the organizers; the two kids were genuinely scared. The theater is very cozy, and the seating is comfortable with plenty of legroom. All in all, a highly recommended experience.

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.

1,050 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 57 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Nils B
Solo
Verified booking
4 days ago
I saw Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the theater and was very impressed overall. The production, the atmosphere, and the effects were truly extraordinary and brought the world of Stranger Things to life in a whole new way. The performance in English also worked well for me and captured the mood of the play very well. Unfortunately, my view of the stage was severely restricted as I could only see the bottom half. Most of the time, this wasn't a major issue because the plot and the most important scenes were still easy to understand. However, there were a few parts that took place exclusively in the upper part of the stage. Because of this, I unfortunately couldn't follow them at all or only partially, which detracted slightly from the experience. Despite this, I really enjoyed the play. The story, the actors, and the technical execution were truly worth seeing. I would definitely recommend it, but when choosing seats, I would make sure to have the best possible view of the entire stage.
Luca B
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
The show is really good and very well staged. The theatre itself is a beautiful and very special location, which adds a lot to the overall experience. However, the restricted view from the back is a bit more significant than you might expect, and unfortunately you cannot see everything that happens on stage. All in all, it is still a really special experience.
Wiebke S
Couple
Verified booking
5 days ago
Absolutely fantastic. The set, the actors, the sound. Unfortunately, our seats were at the very back, so we had a harder time seeing the upper part of the set, but it was incomparable nonetheless. Would watch it again. Thank you so much for the experience!
Adriene. Cowley
Couple
Verified booking
3 days ago
A different play a lot more modern but the technology excellent and well acted . You could hear a pin drop which is a good sign . Would definitely recommend .
Mariam A
Couple
Verified booking
Aug 2026
Amazing production! Best play I've been to London so far. The visual and sound effects were stunning! Having a hard time now finding a play as good!

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: 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

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.

Q: Does Stranger Things: The First Shadow offer group discounts?

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

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

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