Plays

Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets

Three people sitting on stage in front of green curtains, part of "Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Control room scene from Stranger Things: The First Shadow with characters and vintage monitors.

Man in pajamas near Henderson Liquors sign, couple embracing, Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Group of students in a school setting, one standing on a chair, from Stranger Things: The First Shadow.

Duration

2 hr 30 min

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.

4.7/5

(495)

Cansu

Nov 2025

Verified booking

5/5

I booked The First Shadow , Stranger Things experience through Headout and had an incredible time. The reservation process was fast, clear, and completely hassle-free, with tickets delivered instantly and helpful reminders before the show. The experience itself was fantastic, immersive storytelling, impressive sets, and performances that truly captured the dark, nostalgic atmosphere of Hawkins. Headout made everything smooth from start to finish, including easy entry at the venue. I especially appreciated the detailed instructions and directions, which made planning my visit simple. If you're a Stranger Things fan or just love high-quality immersive theatre, this is absolutely worth it. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique, exciting night out.

Naor

Nov 2025

Verified booking

5/5

Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a knockout of a production that turns the stage into a living, breathing world full of sharp energy and cinematic flair. The effects feel unreal, the pacing hits with confidence, and the deeper look at Henry Creel gives the story real emotional weight. Every scene moves with purpose, the performances lock you in, and the whole experience feels like theater discovering a new gear. It’s thrilling, polished, and unforgettable.

Rachel

Nov 2025

Verified booking

5/5

The opening first 10/15 mins of the show was so good the audiences applauded. It was a fantastic start and continued thoughout the entire show. A well paced energetic performances from all the cast, amazing special effects. My only very small criticism was some dialogue was difficult to hear.

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.

4.7
495 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.
413
53
16
2
11
Guests from United States, Germany, France and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Cansu
Nov 2025
Verified booking
5/5
I booked The First Shadow , Stranger Things experience through Headout and had an incredible time. The reservation process was fast, clear, and completely hassle-free, with tickets delivered instantly and helpful reminders before the show. The experience itself was fantastic, immersive storytelling, impressive sets, and performances that truly captured the dark, nostalgic atmosphere of Hawkins. Headout made everything smooth from start to finish, including easy entry at the venue. I especially appreciated the detailed instructions and directions, which made planning my visit simple. If you're a Stranger Things fan or just love high-quality immersive theatre, this is absolutely worth it. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique, exciting night out.
Naor
Nov 2025
Verified booking
5/5
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a knockout of a production that turns the stage into a living, breathing world full of sharp energy and cinematic flair. The effects feel unreal, the pacing hits with confidence, and the deeper look at Henry Creel gives the story real emotional weight. Every scene moves with purpose, the performances lock you in, and the whole experience feels like theater discovering a new gear. It’s thrilling, polished, and unforgettable.
Rachel
Nov 2025
Verified booking
5/5
The opening first 10/15 mins of the show was so good the audiences applauded. It was a fantastic start and continued thoughout the entire show. A well paced energetic performances from all the cast, amazing special effects. My only very small criticism was some dialogue was difficult to hear.
Dewattripont
Nov 2025
Verified booking
5/5
Incredible special effects, magnificent actors. The introduction is crazy. Only downside: the sound effects are often too loud. I can't show you photos of my favorite moments, as photos were not allowed during the show.
Daniel
Nov 2025
Verified booking
5/5
I haven't expected such a spectacular show. The script, acting, special effects and use of props was perfect. We really enjoyed our night out watching Stranger Things, thank you for the amazing experience.

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: Shane Attwooll as Chief Hopper, Jessica Rhodes as Joyce Maldonado, Louis Healy as Henry Creel, Ammar Duffus as Charles Sinclair, Matthew Pidgeon as Principle Newby, Rhianna Dorris as Sue Anderson, Jack Crumlin as Lonnie Byers, Callum Maxwell as Bob Newby, Barney Wilkinson as Ted Wheeler, Karen Childress as Edie Wright, Allen Munson as Michael Murray, Andy Langtree as Victor Creel, George Smale as James Hopper Jr, Jack Gardner as Walter Henderson, Claudia Yount as Betsy Mayle, Luke Mullins as Dr Brenner, Lauren O’Neil as Virginia Creel, Miranda Mufema as Patty 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.