The Stranger Things universe expands beyond the screen with Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a thrilling West End stage play that delves into the origins of one of the series’ most enigmatic villains—Henry Creel, better known as Vecna. Now, fans can go behind the curtain with Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow, a new documentary that captures the making of this ambitious theatrical experience.
From Screen to Stage: A Bold New Vision
When Stranger Things co-creators Matt and Ross Duffer were first approached by acclaimed director Stephen Daldry (The Crown, Billy Elliot) about adapting the hit Netflix series for the stage, they assumed he wanted to turn Season 1 into a musical. Instead, Daldry proposed something even more exciting—an original story set in the Stranger Things universe.
“We thought he wanted to adapt Season 1 into a musical,” Matt Duffer recalls. “But he came to us with the idea of telling a completely new story, which immediately intrigued us.”
After years of development, the creative team—including writer Kate Trefry (Stranger Things staff writer) and co-director Justin Martin—landed on a crucial piece of the Stranger Things mythology: the origin of Henry Creel.
“While working on Season 4, we realized Henry’s backstory was so rich that it needed more exploration,” says Ross Duffer. “The stage became the perfect medium to dive deeper into his transformation into Vecna.”
The Story: Hawkins, 1959
Set years before the events of the TV series, The First Shadow transports audiences to Hawkins in 1959—a seemingly ordinary town hiding dark secrets. The play introduces a young Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, and Bob Newby, long before they become the characters fans know and love.
When Henry Creel and his family arrive in Hawkins, their fresh start is anything but peaceful. Shadows from the past loom large, setting in motion events that will eventually lead to the horrors of the Upside Down.
“This isn’t just a prequel—it’s the beginning of everything,” says Matt Duffer. “The play enhances Season 5 by giving audiences a deeper understanding of Henry’s descent into darkness.”
Bringing the Upside Down to Life Onstage
One of the biggest challenges for the production team was translating the supernatural elements of Stranger Things into a live theatrical experience. Director Stephen Daldry, known for his innovative stagecraft, embraced the challenge.
“The goal was to create a visceral experience where the audience feels shock, awe, and wonder,” Daldry explains. “There are moments in the show where you’ll think, How did they do that?“
From mind-bending illusions to immersive set designs, The First Shadow pushes the boundaries of live performance, blending the cinematic intensity of the TV series with the raw energy of theater.
Meet the Cast: Louis McCartney as Henry Creel
At the heart of the play is Louis McCartney, who originated the role of Henry Creel in the West End production and will reprise his performance on Broadway. McCartney’s portrayal earned critical acclaim, winning him the 2024 Stage Debut Award for Best Performer in a Play and the Critics’ Circle Theatre Award for Most Promising Newcomer.
“Louis brings an incredible intensity to Henry,” says Ross Duffer. “His performance makes you understand—and even empathize with—how this troubled boy becomes Vecna.”
A Standalone Experience for Fans and Newcomers
While The First Shadow enriches the Stranger Things lore, it was designed to stand on its own.
“You don’t need to have seen the show to enjoy the play,” Matt Duffer assures. “This is Henry’s origin story, and it works as its own compelling narrative.”
That said, longtime fans will find plenty of Easter eggs and connections to the series, particularly as Season 5 approaches.
From London to Broadway
Following its Olivier Award-winning run in London’s West End, The First Shadow is set to premiere on Broadway at the Marriott Marquis Theatre, with previews beginning March 28 and opening night on April 22.
Tickets are now available at StrangerThingsBroadway.com.
Behind the Curtain: The Documentary
For those who can’t make it to Broadway, Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow offers an exclusive look at the making of the play. The documentary follows the cast and crew as they race against time to bring this ambitious production to life.
“The first time we saw the play, we were blown away,” says Ross Duffer. “It was one of the most thrilling experiences of our lives.”
Now streaming on Netflix, the documentary is a must-watch for Stranger Things fans and theater lovers alike.
The Future of Stranger Things
With The First Shadow expanding the franchise’s mythology and Season 5 set to conclude the TV series, the Stranger Things universe is far from over.
As the Duffer brothers tease, “This is just the beginning.”
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is now playing in London’s West End and coming soon to Broadway. Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow is available to stream on Netflix.