MANHATTAN, New York (WABC) -- Broadway has welcomed a new addition to its vibrant lineup with the opening of Stranger Things: The First Shadow on April 22, 2025, at the Marquis Theatre. This play serves as a prequel to the immensely popular Netflix series, Stranger Things, and aims to bring the show's beloved world and characters to life in an entirely new theatrical format.
Writer Kate Trefry, who also worked on the original series, expressed her excitement about the unique experience theater offers compared to television. "There's such a lack of boundary in the theater, which is so different from TV," she said. "You're always, like, safe on your couch. And so playing with that lack of boundary in the theater, it's been really exciting." This sentiment resonates with many theatergoers, as the immersive nature of live performance often creates a captivating atmosphere.
While The First Shadow is designed to be accessible to newcomers, those familiar with the series may find themselves picking up on subtle hints regarding the upcoming fifth season, which is set to release later this year, nearly three years after the fourth season. Burke Swanson, who portrays James Hopper Jr., noted that fans might catch some clues about what to expect in the new season. "If you've never seen Stranger Things, you can come see this and just be completely absorbed into it," added Rosie Benton, who plays Virginia Creel.
The production features a sizable cast of 34 members, one of the largest currently on Broadway. Despite the large ensemble, the camaraderie among the cast members shines through. Gabrielle Nevaeh, who plays Patty Newby, remarked, "It is nice to work with people who have your back and make you feel supported." This sense of community extends to the audience as well, with co-director Justin Martin explaining how the crowd's reactions contribute to the overall experience: "In the audience, they scream, or they gasp, or whatever, and then they laugh, because there is a collective sense of 'We're in it together.'"
However, not all reviews of The First Shadow have been glowing. Critics have noted that while the production is visually stunning, it sometimes feels more like a marketing tool for the Netflix series than a standalone theatrical experience. One review described it as a "glorified teaser for the final season of Netflix’s most popular show" and criticized its nearly three-hour runtime and high ticket prices, which can exceed $300.
The play tells the origin story of Henry Creel, who later becomes the series' antagonist, Vecna. Set in 1959, it explores Henry's troubled teenage years as he grapples with his telekinetic abilities and the dark forces that influence him. The narrative also features younger versions of key characters from the series, including Joyce Byers, Jim Hopper, and Bob Newby. Critics have pointed out that while the play is packed with impressive stage effects and jump scares, it sometimes sacrifices storytelling depth for spectacle.
The production has been praised for its ambitious special effects, including a jaw-dropping opener featuring a battleship and Demogorgons. Directed by Stephen Daldry and co-directed by Justin Martin, the creative team has worked to blend theatrical magic with cutting-edge technology. However, some reviewers have noted that the reliance on digital projections and effects can detract from the emotional core of the story, which is a hallmark of the original series.
In the making-of documentary Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Trefry reflects on the challenges of adapting a visual medium like television into the theater. She acknowledges that while the play has its moments of brilliance, it often struggles to capture the intimacy and emotional depth that made the original series resonate with audiences. Critics have echoed this sentiment, stating that the play lacks the nuanced character development and relationships that defined Stranger Things.
Despite the mixed reviews, The First Shadow has garnered attention for its ambitious production values and its attempt to expand the Stranger Things universe. It provides a fresh perspective on familiar characters and delves into their backstories, offering fans a chance to see their favorite characters in a new light. However, it remains to be seen whether the play can stand on its own as a significant work of theater or if it will be remembered primarily as a companion piece to the Netflix series.
As the play continues to run at the Marquis Theatre in New York City and the Phoenix Theatre in London, audiences will have the opportunity to experience this unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. Whether it ultimately fulfills the expectations of die-hard fans or serves as a fun spectacle for newcomers, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is undeniably a noteworthy addition to the Broadway landscape.
