Plays

Stranger Things: The First Shadow Tickets

Name: Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Start: 2026-06-05T13:00:00
End: 2026-06-05T15:30:00
Location: Phoenix Theatre

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

Age Limit

Suitable for 12+ yrs

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.

4.8/5(827)

Stephanie M

Group

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

I found Stranger Things: The First Shadow truly avant‑garde and completely immersive. From start to finish, the staging is stunning — inventive, fluid, and almost cinematic in the way scenes unfold. The sets are incredibly realistic, creating the feeling of being pulled straight into Hawkins and its eerie atmosphere. The cast delivers excellent performances, perfectly balanced and emotionally engaging. Every character feels authentic and alive on stage. But what impressed me the most were the special effects. They far exceeded my expectations. The illusions, lighting, transitions, and visual tricks are so masterfully executed that you genuinely feel at the heart of the action, as if the Upside Down were opening right in front of you. Overall, it’s without a doubt the most accomplished show I’ve ever seen — ambitious, spectacular, and technically flawless. Bravo to the entire team for such an extraordinary experience.

Paolo I

Group

Verified booking

Last week

We came to London specifically to see *Stranger Things: The First Shadow*, and I have to say the show was well worth the trip—it far exceeded all our expectations. Everything is fantastic: movie-quality special effects, incredibly talented actors, and an incredibly engaging script with a fast-paced rhythm that transports you in an instant to 1950s Hawkins. We had found tickets for the Grand Circle (the cheapest ones), but we could see everything perfectly and were able to enjoy the show in all its spectacular glory. We arrived about 40 minutes before the show started, so we were also able to check out the official store and buy the show’s program. In short, everything was truly fantastic, and I highly recommend it to everyone!

Nadine L

Group

Verified booking

Last week

The show *Stranger Things: The First Shadow* at the Phoenix Theatre was by far the best thing I’ve ever seen. The actors were absolutely outstanding and performed every scene with incredible intensity and authenticity. Add to that spectacular special effects, impressive set design, and an atmosphere that completely swept you away from the first minute to the last. An absolute masterpiece and a must-see for every *Stranger Things* fan! Photos are from seat D8 Grand Circle

Bernadett P

Couple

Verified booking

2 days ago

It was extremely exciting, every minute well put together, the actors were amazing, the characters were complex and they added a new layer to the lore. I loved the visual effects, they were spectacular and flawless. It was perfection in every aspect. I enjoyed it so much that didn't notice how uncomfortable chair was until I had to get up, but that is a common "charm" among London theaters, and as I said with such an incredible show, I didn't even notice until tge show was over.

Maier M

Solo

Verified booking

Last week

I don't even know if I can describe how good this play was with words but I'll try. The visual effects were insanely flabbergasting. The acting from each and everyone on stage was brilliant. Any person who adores the series HAS to see this. It was simply beautiful.

Vanessa R

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

Wow. We came all the way from Germany this morning just to see the play. It was totally worth it! Great stage show and amazing actors. But why does Hopper look like Steve Harrington?🤣🤣

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.

827 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 Germany, United States, France and over 51 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Sonja K
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
The venue was great, the show nothing short to spectacular. Lightshow, videoinstallation, tempo, sound effects and great actors. Higjly recommend
Stephanie M
Group
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
I found Stranger Things: The First Shadow truly avant‑garde and completely immersive. From start to finish, the staging is stunning — inventive, fluid, and almost cinematic in the way scenes unfold. The sets are incredibly realistic, creating the feeling of being pulled straight into Hawkins and its eerie atmosphere. The cast delivers excellent performances, perfectly balanced and emotionally engaging. Every character feels authentic and alive on stage. But what impressed me the most were the special effects. They far exceeded my expectations. The illusions, lighting, transitions, and visual tricks are so masterfully executed that you genuinely feel at the heart of the action, as if the Upside Down were opening right in front of you. Overall, it’s without a doubt the most accomplished show I’ve ever seen — ambitious, spectacular, and technically flawless. Bravo to the entire team for such an extraordinary experience.
Paolo I
Group
Verified booking
Last week
We came to London specifically to see *Stranger Things: The First Shadow*, and I have to say the show was well worth the trip—it far exceeded all our expectations. Everything is fantastic: movie-quality special effects, incredibly talented actors, and an incredibly engaging script with a fast-paced rhythm that transports you in an instant to 1950s Hawkins. We had found tickets for the Grand Circle (the cheapest ones), but we could see everything perfectly and were able to enjoy the show in all its spectacular glory. We arrived about 40 minutes before the show started, so we were also able to check out the official store and buy the show’s program. In short, everything was truly fantastic, and I highly recommend it to everyone!
Nadine L
Group
Verified booking
Last week
The show *Stranger Things: The First Shadow* at the Phoenix Theatre was by far the best thing I’ve ever seen. The actors were absolutely outstanding and performed every scene with incredible intensity and authenticity. Add to that spectacular special effects, impressive set design, and an atmosphere that completely swept you away from the first minute to the last. An absolute masterpiece and a must-see for every *Stranger Things* fan! Photos are from seat D8 Grand Circle
Bernadett P
Couple
Verified booking
2 days ago
It was extremely exciting, every minute well put together, the actors were amazing, the characters were complex and they added a new layer to the lore. I loved the visual effects, they were spectacular and flawless. It was perfection in every aspect. I enjoyed it so much that didn't notice how uncomfortable chair was until I had to get up, but that is a common "charm" among London theaters, and as I said with such an incredible show, I didn't even notice until tge show was over.

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.