Go Behind the Scenes of Stranger Things: The First Shadow in an Exclusive Documentary

A New Look at the Stranger Things Universe

Are you ready to step into the world of Stranger Things like never before? A brand-new documentary, Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, takes fans behind the scenes of the highly anticipated stage play. The documentary will premiere on April 15, giving a deep dive into the creative process, challenges, and thrilling moments leading up to the show’s opening night.

The Story Behind the Play

The Stranger Things stage play, The First Shadow, made its debut on December 14, 2023, at London’s Phoenix Theatre. The play is based on an original story by the Duffer brothers, Jack Thorne (Enola Holmes 2), and Kate Trefry. It explores the origins of Stranger Things’ most terrifying villain, Vecna, and takes audiences back to Hawkins in 1959.

What to Expect in the Documentary

Directed by Jon Halperin and produced by Angus Wall, Kent Kubena, and Terry Leonard, the documentary offers an inside look at how the stage play came to life. Expect to see:

• Exclusive interviews with the cast and crew
• The challenges of bringing Stranger Things to the stage
• The magic behind the play’s breathtaking special effects
• How the story connects to Season 5 of Stranger Things

Stephen Daldry’s Vision for the Play

Tony-winning director Stephen Daldry wanted to create a stage experience that would leave audiences in awe. “The challenge is to create a visceral experience for the audience, where they feel shock and awe, surprise and delight,” Daldry said. “There are moments in the show where you will think, ‘I don’t understand how they did that.’”

The Broadway Debut of Stranger Things: The First Shadow

After its success in London, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is now coming to Broadway! The play will begin previews on March 28, with an official opening on April 22 at the Marriott Marquis Theater in New York City.

Get Your Tickets!

Fans eager to experience the play live can get their tickets now at StrangerThingsBroadway.com.

How The First Shadow Ties Into Stranger Things Season 5

For fans wondering how this story connects to the upcoming fifth season, co-creator Ross Duffer has confirmed that the play enhances Season 5’s storyline. “While Season 5 explores Henry’s backstory, the play provides a much deeper understanding of who he was — and how and why he became Vecna.”

Meet the Cast

The play features a talented cast, including Louis McCartney as Henry Creel. McCartney’s performance has already earned him awards such as the 2024 Stage Debut Award for Best Performer in a Play and the Critics’ Circle Theatre Award for Most Promising Newcomer. He will reprise his role on Broadway.

Do You Need to Watch Stranger Things to Enjoy the Play?

While Stranger Things fans will undoubtedly appreciate the deeper connections, the Duffer brothers assure that the play is designed to stand on its own. “Ultimately, this is the origin story of Henry Creel. The beginning of everything. Which is the perfect place to start!”

If you love Stranger Things, theater, or just a great behind-the-scenes story, Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a must-watch. Be sure to catch the documentary on April 15 and don’t miss the Broadway debut of Stranger Things: The First Shadow this spring