Expert Review: Why Stranger Things Delivers On Stage

4.5
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Stranger Things: The First Shadow successfully translates the beloved Netflix series to the stage with impressive theatrical flair. This prequel doesn't just rely on nostalgia - it delivers genuine thrills, emotional depth, and spectacular effects that bring the Upside Down to vivid, terrifying life.

What Makes It Captivating

  • True to the Series: Captures the exact tone, atmosphere, and supernatural terror that made the show a cultural phenomenon.
  • Spectacular Effects: The Upside Down, Demogorgons, and supernatural phenomena are brought to life with stunning theatrical magic.
  • Character Development: Explores the backstories of beloved characters with new depth and emotional resonance.
  • 80s Nostalgia: Perfect recreation of 1980s Hawkins with authentic music, costumes, and atmosphere.

Perfect For

Stranger Things fans of all ages, families with older children, sci-fi enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys supernatural thrillers with heart. The perfect theatrical experience for both series devotees and newcomers.

Everything You Need to Know

The First Shadow Story

Set in 1959, decades before the events of the Netflix series, this prequel explores the origins of the supernatural phenomena plaguing Hawkins. When young Henry Creel moves to Hawkins with his family, mysterious and terrifying events begin to unfold, revealing the dark secrets that will eventually create the Upside Down.

What to Expect

  • The origin story of key Stranger Things characters and mythology
  • Young Henry Creel's transformation and the birth of Vecna
  • The first encounters with the Upside Down and its creatures
  • Classic 1950s Americana setting with supernatural horror elements
  • Familiar themes of friendship, family, and fighting otherworldly evil

Supernatural Stage Magic

The production uses cutting-edge theatrical techniques to bring the supernatural world of Stranger Things to the stage.

Spectacular Effects

  • The Upside Down: Stunning visual representation of the dark parallel dimension
  • Demogorgons: Terrifying creatures brought to life through puppetry and design
  • Telekinetic Powers: Objects moving and transforming through stage magic
  • Atmospheric Design: Lighting and sound that create genuine supernatural dread
  • 1950s Recreation: Authentic period design and music

Technical Achievement: The show has been praised for seamlessly blending practical effects with theatrical illusion to create genuine scares and wonder.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Monday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Friday: 8:00pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm

Getting There

  • Tube: Leicester Square (5 minutes walk)
  • Bus: Multiple routes along Charing Cross Road
  • Parking: Q-Park Chinatown nearby

Important Notes

  • 3.5 hour runtime with two intervals for comfort
  • Ages 12+ due to supernatural horror elements
  • Limited run - advance booking essential
  • Contains flashing lights and loud sounds