The theatrical world is getting ready to bid farewell to “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” a critically acclaimed prequel to the much-loved Netflix series. Producers have announced that this production will conclude its performances at both the Phoenix Theatre in London and the Marquis Theatre on Broadway, with the final curtain set to fall on December 27, 2026, and January 3, 2027, respectively.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/stranger-things-the-first-shadow-west-end-production-2-052224-87395c5a546043bcb2f0008252711477.jpg)
Since its debut in London’s West End in 2023, “The First Shadow” has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike, achieving remarkable success. The play has garnered multiple awards, including Olivier Awards for Best Entertainment and Best Set Design, and later, it continued its winning streak on Broadway by clinching four Tony Awards in 2025. These accolades spoke to the innovative nature of the production, which has been hailed as one of the most successful theatrical adaptations of a television series to date.
Ticket sales have been impressive, with nearly 1.6 million tickets already sold and over 1,500 performances. This substantial audience turnout reflects a growing trend of successful stage adaptations of popular screen properties, proving that the intersection of theatre and television can yield significant results.
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” is not a traditional spinoff; it serves as a crucial piece of the larger narrative of the beloved Netflix series. Written by Kate Trefry, who collaborated with the creators, the Duffer Brothers, and Jack Thorne, the production examines the formative years of Henry Creel, the character who evolves into the sinister Vecna, portrayed on screen by Jamie Campbell Bower. This unique aspect has made the play a must-see for fans eager for insight into the backstory of one of the series’ central antagonists.
The creators reflect on the bold move to bring “Stranger Things” to the stage with mixed emotions, noting how they were initially taken aback by the proposition. The Duffer Brothers remarked, “When the legendary Stephen Daldry first came to us with the idea of making a Stranger Things play, we were stunned — both by the fact that Stephen wanted to do this, and that he believed it could work. And boy, did it work.” Their praise for the production highlights its unprecedented nature within the theatre landscape, as audiences have had the opportunity to engage with Broadway in a way they may never have before.
Kate Trefry echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about the opportunity to explore the character of Henry Creel and emphasising the joy of writing for live theatre. She stated, “It has been a magical, terrifying ride. To share the communal experience of every laugh, tear, and scare with your audience is every writer’s dream.” This passion is evident in the actors’ performances, especially those like Louis McCartney, who has been nominated for a Tony Award for his portrayal of Henry Creel.
Directors Justin Martin and Stephen Daldry also conveyed their gratitude to the fans for embracing this new theatrical experience, especially those who might not have visited a theatre before. They stated, “To be entrusted with bringing The Duffer Brothers’ incredible creation to the stage has been an utter joy.” Their enthusiasm mirrors the excitement shared by audiences, many of whom have taken the opportunity to delve into the world of live performance through this production.
Despite the impending closure of “The First Shadow,” its legacy will endure. Earlier this year, it was confirmed that the Broadway production had been filmed for future streaming on Netflix. This move marks a significant step for the streaming giant, illustrating its commitment to expanding its creative footprint in the realm of live theatre. While the precise date and details for the streaming release have yet to be revealed, the anticipation is already beginning to build.
In the meantime, a making-of special highlighting the journey of the Broadway show is currently available for viewing on Netflix, providing fans with further insight into the production’s creation and execution. As “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” draws closer to its conclusion, it remains a shining example of the possibilities at the intersection of stage and screen, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and paving the way for future theatrical adaptations. Tickets for the remaining performances are on sale, providing one last opportunity for audiences to experience this remarkable production before its final bows.