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

(583)

Lucrezia

Feb 2026

Verified booking

Seeing Stranger Things: The First Shadow was a unique experience. Not only does it allow us to revisit familiar and beloved characters, but it also introduces new and fascinating ones. The set design is incredible, and it felt like being inside the show, because it mixed special effects, actors, and overhead shots, allowing for a unique and incredible view. The actors were exceptional, but the protagonist really deserves a thousand applauses. Worth seeing again.

Agostino

Jan 2026

Verified booking

The theater is incredibly evocative, pervaded by a magical atmosphere that harks back to a bygone era. The play was sublime! The performances of the main actors were masterful... especially the actress who plays young Joyce and the actor who plays Henry, who managed to flawlessly embody the characteristics of the characters they portray! I highly recommend this experience!

Eva

Jan 2026

Verified booking

The special effects create an immersive experience of Hawkins for the audience. The play can be considered as episode zero, a great addition to the series. The actors brought the characters alive in a marvelous way, and all the sounds and music gave the whole experience this eerie feeling very fitting with the story. A must see for every Stranger Things fan! If you have not seen the series yet, this is also a great way to start.

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.

583 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.
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Guests from United States, Germany, France and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ting
Feb 2026
Verified booking
Absolutely loved watching "Stranger Things" at the Phoenix Theatre in London! From start to finish, the experience was electrifying. The light effects were truly remarkable, immersing the audience in the eerie atmosphere of the Upside Down. Every flash and glow perfectly complemented the storyline, adding an extra layer of intensity to the performance. The seat comfort was another highlight; the plush seating allowed us to relax and enjoy the show without any discomfort. The theatre itself had a charming ambiance, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The acoustics were impressive, ensuring that every line of dialogue resonated clearly throughout the venue. The cast delivered stellar performances, bringing the beloved characters to life with authenticity. Their energy was infectious, drawing the audience into the narrative. Overall, I highly recommend catching this fantastic adaptation—it's a wonderful blend of nostalgia, talent, and innovative stagecraft that you won’t want to miss!
Lucrezia
Feb 2026
Verified booking
Seeing Stranger Things: The First Shadow was a unique experience. Not only does it allow us to revisit familiar and beloved characters, but it also introduces new and fascinating ones. The set design is incredible, and it felt like being inside the show, because it mixed special effects, actors, and overhead shots, allowing for a unique and incredible view. The actors were exceptional, but the protagonist really deserves a thousand applauses. Worth seeing again.
Szilard
Feb 2026
Verified booking
Stranger Things: The First Shadow felt like an incredible blend of cinema, musical theatre, and theme park magic. The production was visually stunning and deeply immersive from start to finish. It perfectly captured the spirit of the series while offering a unique, live adventure that thrilled every sense. T One of the best show in theatre ever!
Szilard
Feb 2026
Verified booking
Stranger Things: The First Shadow was absolutely mind-blowing! The acting, effects, and story pulled me straight into Hawkins’ dark, nostalgic world. A must-see masterpiece for any fan — thrilling from start to finish!
Patricia
Feb 2026
Verified booking
Incredible presentation of this work, we sat in an area with reduced visibility, but it looked very good, barely some part the visibility was cut. But super good. I recommend it to all fans of this series.

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.