STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW Will Focus on Young Jim Hopper, Joyce, More

It’s a prequel! We’re getting more details on the upcoming Stranger Things stage play that was announced last year. First up, the title is Stranger Things: The First Shadow (ominous!) and the world premiere will take place at the Phoenix Theatre in London later this year.

Second, the story will take place in 1959, following Hawkins teens Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado (later Byers), and Bob Newby as they go about the routine lives. Everything is upended, however, when new student Henry Creel arrives. (Fans of the show will know that the Creel family have a connection to the Upside Down.) Casting will be announced at a later date.

‍Stranger Things: The First Shadow is written by Kate Trefry, a writer and co-executive producer on the hit Netflix series, based on an original story by the Duffer Brothers, Jack Thorne. and Trefry. The play is directed by Stephen Daldry with co-direction by Justin Martin.

“Kate Trefry has written a play that is at turns surprising, scary, and heartfelt,” said the Duffer Brothers. “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 production will feature set design by Miriam Buether, costume design by Brigitte Reiffenstuel, lighting design by Jon Clark, sound design by Paul Arditti, illusions design by Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher, video design by 59 Productions, movement direction by Coral Messam, wigs, hair and make-up design by Campbell Young Associates, casting by Charlotte Sutton, and international casting consultancy by Jim Carnahan. Gary Beestone for Gary Beestone Associates is the technical director, with further creative team members to be announced.

Produced by Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions, the play will go on sale this spring, more details of which will be announced later this month. The Duffer Brothers act as creative producers, with 21 Laps as associate producer.

For more information, including signing up for priority access tickets, click here.