Netflix is keeping Stranger Things fans engaged while they wait for the final season of the hit series. The much-anticipated stage prequel, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, has officially begun its preview run on Broadway, following a successful debut in London’s West End. To build excitement, Netflix has also announced an upcoming documentary, Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, offering an inside look at the play’s production.
First Look at Stranger Things: The First Shadow on Broadway
The First Shadow is set in 1959 and explores the early life of Henry Creel—better known as Vecna—before the events of Stranger Things. The story follows Henry as he moves to Hawkins, Indiana, with his family, hoping for a fresh start. Initially, he settles in well, making friends, participating in a school play, and even encountering younger versions of familiar characters like Hopper and Joyce. However, mysterious crimes in town soon hint at a sinister connection to his emerging powers.
The Broadway production, which started previews on March 28 at the Marriott Marquis Theater, stars Louis McCartney as Henry Creel. The cast also includes Alison Jaye, Burke Swanson, and T.R. Knight, among others. First-look images from the Broadway show have been released, offering a glimpse of McCartney using his powers and making contact with the Mind Flayer.
Behind the Scenes: Netflix’s Documentary on the Making of the Play
To further immerse fans in the world of Stranger Things, Netflix will release a behind-the-scenes documentary, Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, on April 15. The feature will provide an in-depth look at how the production came to life, chronicling its journey from conception to its critically acclaimed West End debut in December 2023.
Directed by Jon Halperin, the documentary follows the cast and crew as they prepare for the play’s launch at London’s Phoenix Theatre. The West End production was a massive success, earning two Olivier Awards in 2024 for Best Entertainment or Comedy Play and Best Set Design. Actor Louis McCartney also won a Stage Debut Award for Best Performer.
The Creative Vision Behind the Play
Directed by Stephen Daldry alongside Justin Martin and written by Kate Trefry, The First Shadow was originally conceived by Stranger Things creators, the Duffer Brothers. The play aims to deliver a theatrical experience that blends elements of television storytelling with live performance. Daldry emphasized the challenge of creating a production that evokes “shock and awe, surprise and delight.” He noted, “There are moments in First Shadow where you will think: I don’t understand how they did that.”
The Broadway cast features several talented actors, including Rosie Benton, Alex Breaux, Ta’Rea Campbell, Juan Carlos, and Logan Gould. With its official opening scheduled for April 22, expectations are high for the play to match or even exceed the success of its London counterpart.
What’s Next for Stranger Things Fans?
While Netflix has yet to announce the release date for the final season of Stranger Things, The First Shadow provides fans with a fresh perspective on the show’s lore. With the play’s Broadway debut and an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary, there’s plenty to keep audiences engaged as they await the next chapter in the Stranger Things saga.
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