Netflix recently unleashed a thrilling new teaser for Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a captivating prequel stage production that promises to unveil a whole new dimension to the hit series. While Stranger Things Season 5 may mark the end of the line for our beloved group, the story continues to unfold. The upcoming project turns back the hands of time, taking us even deeper into the intriguing past of Hawkins.
Set in 1959, the stage production takes place long before the disappearance of Noah Schnapp’s Will Byers and the events of the main series. The play’s details remain shrouded in mystery; however, Netflix hinted that the upcoming stage show will “take you right back to the beginning of the Stranger Things story – and it might hold the key to what comes next.” Echoing the main series, the narrative will centre around a group of teenagers whose lives are dramatically changed by the arrival of a fresh face, young Henry Creel aka the future Vecna.
This time, the trio of central students will be young versions of Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, and Bob Newby, portrayed by David Harbour, Winona Ryder, and Sean Astin in the original series. However, no cast details have been announced as of writing.
The description on the Phoenix Theatre’s website for the upcoming play reads, “Hawkins, 1959: a regular town with regular worries. Young Jim Hopper’s car won’t start, Bob Newby’s sister won’t take his radio show seriously and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and get the hell out of town. When new student Henry Creel arrives, his family finds that a fresh start isn’t so easy… and the shadows of the past have a very long reach. Brought to life by a multi-award-winning creative team, who take theatrical storytelling and stagecraft to a whole new dimension, this gripping new adventure will take you right back to the beginning of the Stranger Things story – and may hold the key to the end.”
The teaser trailer for Stranger Things‘ upcoming stage adaptation showcases a slew of clips from some pivotal moments from the original series on a vintage TV screen. The teaser climaxes with the screen shattering, revealing a red glowing orb on an empty theatre stage. Slowly, the words appear, “The beginning of the Stranger Things Story Might Hold The Key To What Comes Next.”
Stranger Things: The First Shadow boasts an impressive creative team, led by writer and co-executive producer Kate Trefry, also known for her contributions to the main series. The play is based on a story developed in collaboration with series creators Ross Duffer, Matt Duffer, and Jack Thorne. Helming the production is the acclaimed director Stephen Daldry, with co-director Justin Martin.
The creative team also includes Miriam Buether as set designer, Brigitte Reiffenstuel as costume designer, and Jon Clark as lighting designer. Paul Arditti takes on sound design, while illusions design and visual effects are by Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher. Video design and visual effects are by 59 Productions, movement direction by Coral Messam, and wigs, hair, and make-up design by Campbell Young Associates.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is set to take the stage by storm at the Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End, running from November 17 to August 25, 2024. If you’re eager to witness the “beginning of the Stranger Things story,” then you can secure your spot now by booking your tickets here.
