Stranger Things: The First Shadow Synopsis & Poster Tease Prequel Play

Netflix has finally announced new details about the Duffer Brothers’ upcoming stage play adaptation of the hit sci-fi drama Stranger Things, which has now been titled Stranger Things: The First Shadow. It has been confirmed that the play will be an origin story revolving around teenage versions of Hopper, Joyce, and Bob.

“We are beyond excited about Stranger Things: The First Shadow. Collaborating with the brilliant Stephen Daldry has been nothing short of inspiring, and Kate Trefry has written a play that is at turns surprising, scary, and heartfelt,” said Matt and Ross Duffer in a statement. “You will meet endearing new characters, as well as very familiar ones, on a journey into the past that sets the groundwork for the future of Stranger Things. We’re dying to tell you more about the story but won’t – it’s more fun to discover it for yourself. Can’t wait to see you nerds in London!”

The streamer has also revealed that The First Shadow will be making its world premiere at the Phoenix Theater in London’s West End in the late 2023. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale this spring. Further details regarding its ticket sale, casting, and schedule will be announced soon.

“Hawkins, 1959: a regular town with regular worries. Young Jim Hopper’s car won’t start, Bob Newby’s sister won’t take his radio show seriously and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and get the hell out of town,” reads the synopsis. “When new student Henry Creel arrives, his family finds that a fresh start isn’t so easy… and the shadows of the past have a very long reach.”

Stranger Things: The First Shadow will be directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, with Kate Trefry signing on to pen the play which will be rooted in the mythology and world of the Netflix global phenomenon. It is based on an original story by Jack Thorne and series creators Matt and Ross Duffer, who are attached to serve as creative producers.

The play is produced by Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions, with 21 Laps set as an associate producer. The creative team will be consisting of Miriam Buether for set design, Brigitte Reiffenstuel for costume design, Jon Clark for lighting design, Paul Arditti for sound design, Jamie Harrison & Chris Fisher for illusions design, 59 Productions for video design, Coral Messam for movement direction, Campbell Young Associates for wigs, hair and make-up design, and Gary Beestone for Gary Beestone Associates as the technical director.