Netflix's Stranger Things stage production will be the subject of an upcoming documentary
The highly-anticipated Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow officially opened to the public on April 22, 2025, at the Marquis Theatre in New York City[1][3]. This theatrical prequel to Netflix's hit series, written by Kate Trefry and based on an original story by the Duffer Brothers, Trefry, and Jack Thorne[2][3], has been receiving critical acclaim since its successful run on the West End.
Set in 1959, the play follows 15-year-old Henry Creel and his family as they move to Hawkins for a fresh start[6]. Louis McCartney, who plays Henry Creel in First Shadow, won a Stage Debut Award for Best Performer in 2024[7]. The Broadway cast also includes Alison Jaye, Burke Swanson, T.R. Knight, and Burke Swanson, with Louis McCartney as the main character, Henry Creel-aka One, aka Vecna[4].
Director Stephen Daldry discusses the challenge of creating a visceral experience in the Broadway production of First Shadow, emphasizing the fusion of television and theater, and the speed of narrative[5]. Daldry expresses excitement about moments in First Shadow that will leave audiences wondering how they were achieved[5].
Netflix has released two new screenshots from the Broadway production of First Shadow showing McCartney using his powers and making contact with the Mind Flayer[8]. Weird crimes start happening around the city in First Shadow, which may be connected to Henry Creel's powers[6].
The Broadway production of First Shadow won two Olivier Awards for set design and entertainment of comedy or play during its West End run[1]. Tickets for the Broadway production can be purchased online[9]. The documentary Behind the Curtain about the production of First Shadow will be available on Netflix on April 15[2].
References: 1. BroadwayWorld 2. Deadline 3. Variety 4. Playbill 5. The Hollywood Reporter 6. IGN 7. The Stage 8. ComicBook.com 9. Ticketmaster
- IO9 and Gizmodo have shared their thoughts on the innovative blend of television and theater in the critically acclaimed Broadway production of 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow', praising its fusion of technology and entertainment.
- As fans eagerly await the upcoming documentary 'Behind the Curtain' on Netflix, movies-and-tv websites like Mashable and Fandango are already speculating about the behind-the-scenes secrets that will be revealed, particularly focusing on the technology used in the show's mind-blowing effects.
- With the Broadway production of 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow' shaking up the world of theater and becoming a must-see event, entertainment platforms like Entertainment Weekly and IndieWire have turned their focus to speculating about the future of theater, predicting that this production may spark a new wave of technology-infused theater experiences in the years to come.
