On April 22, 2025, the highly anticipated play "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" made its Broadway debut at the Marquis Theatre in New York City, drawing a star-studded crowd from the beloved Netflix series. Cast members Jamie Campbell Bower, Charlie Heaton, Natalia Dyer, Noah Schnapp, Priah Ferguson, Cara Buono, and Matthew Modine graced the red carpet, showcasing their support for the new production. The event was not just a celebration of the play but also a reunion for the cast, who traveled from the fictional town of Hawkins to the bright lights of Broadway.
The opening night was a spectacle, with series creators Matt and Ross Duffer and executive producer Shawn Levy also in attendance, capturing moments with the cast in various photos. The excitement surrounding the event was palpable, especially as it followed a visit from co-star Sadie Sink, who is currently starring in the play "John Proctor Is the Villain" across the street.
Directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, "The First Shadow" serves as a prequel to the series, focusing on the origin story of Henry Creel, a character portrayed by Bower in the show. The play is set in 1959 Hawkins, where a young Henry grapples with his emerging powers while encountering familiar faces such as Joyce, Hopper, and Bob. This narrative not only expands the lore of the series but also aims to answer some of the burning questions fans have had since the show began.
During the event, the cast had the chance to meet their stage counterparts, with Modine sharing moments with stage actor Alex Breaux, who will also join the cast in the upcoming season of the series. Bower and Louis McCartney, who plays a younger version of Henry on stage, exchanged hugs, marking a heartfelt reunion.
Noah Schnapp, who plays Will Byers, took to Instagram to express his enthusiasm for the play, calling it a "must-watch" for fans of the series. He praised the cast's talent, saying, "This cast is incredibly talented and hard-working. Every detail — the special effects, music, costumes, writing — is all top-tier. Everyone who is a Stranger Things fan cannot miss [The First Shadow]." His sentiments were echoed in a review by Entertainment Weekly, which described the production as a "frightening, immersive, nonstop thrill ride" that effectively transports audiences into the world of the series.
The Duffer Brothers, in a previous interview, hinted at the play's connection to the upcoming fifth season of the show, stating that it provides "not-so-subtle teases and hints as to where certain storylines are heading." Writer Kate Trefry elaborated on the play's themes, emphasizing that it delves into the origins of Hawkins and the mysteries surrounding the town and its infamous lab. Trefry noted, "It was important to me to give the town an original sin that it would then be punished for in these events that play out over the course of many decades. It could be any town, which is to say every town has a shadow."
As the cast took their bows on stage, the energy in the theater was electric. The production has already garnered significant attention, and the presence of the original cast members has only heightened the excitement. Fans of the series are eager to see how this prequel will intertwine with the established narrative of "Stranger Things." The production is a testament to the enduring popularity of the series, which has captivated audiences since its debut.
Looking ahead, Schnapp shared his thoughts on the series finale, indicating that viewers should prepare for an emotional ride. He stated, "People are going to be truly devastated. Honestly, as sad as it was, I'm so excited to see the world's reactions to watching the finale. There's not going to be a dry eye. Not to be so negative. It is a really great season. And people will love it." This statement has left fans buzzing with anticipation for the final season, as they wonder how the story will conclude.
As "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" continues its run on Broadway, it not only entertains but also deepens the lore of the beloved series. With its talented cast and captivating storyline, the play is poised to become a must-see for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. The blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling promises to keep audiences engaged, ensuring that the legacy of "Stranger Things" lives on beyond the screen.
In a world where the supernatural meets the mundane, the play invites audiences to explore the origins of fear, friendship, and the unknown, making it a fitting addition to the "Stranger Things" franchise. As the curtain falls on each performance, the echoes of Hawkins linger, reminding us that every town has its shadows.
