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.

4.8/5

(679)

Rodolfo G

Couple

Verified booking

Feb 2026

The theatre is not big, but it has a great atmosphere. The audience as a whole was very engaged. The acting itself was terrific, with a special mention to Avril Maponga (Patty Newby) and Max Potter (Bob Newby). The masterful mix of practical and digital effects, including wiring, projections, and displays, made it a truly unforgettable experience. Moreover, the telling of Henry's backstory is a necessary addition to the lore for any Stranger Things fan. Overall, every aspect of the play is outstanding, and I really recommend it.

Pinelopi A

Couple

Verified booking

Feb 2026

We have never seen anything like this on a stage before... The visual effects are absolutely amazing and take your breath away. The storyline is captivating and the performance by the whole cast is incredible. Jack Christou is Henry Creel. You can tell that an actor is amazing when you catch yourself forgetting that you are watching a play and not a real life event. At some point he is coming down from the stage and walks among the crowd and you get the chills. The only thing I can say is BRAVO to everybody involved!

Lucrezia P

Solo

Verified booking

Feb 2026

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.

Eleonora F

Solo

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

It was super easy to get in, and the Headout app was really convenient. The show flowed smoothly and was a real treat for fans of the series and for filling in the "gaps." Beautiful and very welcoming theater; I saw quite a few people come back during intermission with wine glasses and a bottle of wine—a nice option! Perfect sound and visibility even though I was in the Grand Circle; the set design was AMAZING, a mix of immersive videos that blended seamlessly during scene changes. Beautiful!

Caitlyn J

Couple

Verified booking

Feb 2026

Going to this play was very enjoyable experience, it definitely cleared up some things that were left questioned in the show and the use of the the lighting and background separation made it good to recognize different areas. The staff were also very accommodating with ear defenders as it was loud.

Ilse B

Group

Verified booking

Feb 2026

We went together with our teenagers. I didn't know what to expect but we were blown away by the performances of the cast. The special effects were so cool. I do think to love it, you must first see the tv show. The story is great. We all thought it was the best theatre we ever saw.

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.

679 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 47 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Anna Z
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
My dream came true! ✨ I visited London for the first time, and this unforgettable experience was made possible by the Phoenix Theatre and Stranger Things: The First Shadow. It was simply magical! Everything was perfect from the very beginning: the theater staff were incredibly welcoming and kind. There was also a buffet where you could buy food and drinks, as well as Stranger Things merchandise (I couldn't resist and bought two mugs: one for me and one for my friend!). But the real magic began when the show started. The actors were extraordinary! Throughout the show, I felt completely immersed in that world: as if I were part of the story, right there on stage with them. It was so exciting that I cried with joy. Tears were streaming down my face, but I was so happy. It was a unique, intense, and unforgettable experience. I recommend it with all my heart! ❤️
Eleonora F
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
It was super easy to get in, and the Headout app was really convenient. The show flowed smoothly and was a real treat for fans of the series and for filling in the "gaps." Beautiful and very welcoming theater; I saw quite a few people come back during intermission with wine glasses and a bottle of wine—a nice option! Perfect sound and visibility even though I was in the Grand Circle; the set design was AMAZING, a mix of immersive videos that blended seamlessly during scene changes. Beautiful!
Dawid J
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
A spectacle brimming with special effects. Just when you think the plot has calmed down, a shocking twist arrives. The incredibly elaborate illusion repeatedly leaves viewers wondering, "How did they do that?"
Nocum L
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
It was absolutely perfect—incredible. The actors, the sets, the direction, and the special effects were all amazing. It’s the first time I’ve ever enjoyed a show this much. Thank you for everything.
Tina G
Couple
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
I loved it. Thrilled from second one to the last applause. Came the second time from Vienna to London to see it, it was the Valentines Gift for my husband, who absolutely loved it too

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.