Broadway is set to welcome a thrilling new production, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, which is based on the globally popular Netflix series. The play is scheduled to begin performances on March 28, 2025, at the renowned Marquis Theatre in New York City, with an official opening night planned for April 22, 2025.
One of the most exciting aspects of this production is the return of T.R. Knight, known for his memorable role in Grey’s Anatomy, to the Broadway stage. Knight will portray Victor Creel, a pivotal character in the storyline. Victor is the father of Henry Creel, who is recognized by fans as the character that eventually evolves into the formidable villain, Vecna, introduced in the fourth season of the series.
Joining Knight in the cast is Louis McCartney, who will reprise his role as Henry Creel from the play’s successful debut in London’s West End. The cast is further enriched by the talent of Rosie Benton, who will take on the role of Virginia Creel, Henry’s mother. Benton’s previous Broadway credits include notable productions such as Patriots and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow transports audiences back to the year 1959, long before the events of the original series unfold in the 1980s. The narrative centers around young versions of beloved characters, including Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado (later known as Joyce Byers), and Bob Newby. In this prequel, they are depicted as students navigating the complexities of adolescence, only to have their lives dramatically altered when a new student, Henry, arrives.
The production has already garnered attention for its impressive visual effects and theatrical ingenuity, which were showcased in a preview video released earlier this year. The play promises to deliver a gripping experience filled with unexpected twists and turns, captivating both fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Additional cast members for the Broadway adaptation include Burke Swanson as James Hopper, Alison Jaye, known for her work on Shameless, as Joyce Maldonado, and Nicky Eldridge as Bob Newby. Andrew Hovelson will portray Principal Newby, while Gabrielle Nevaeh, an Emmy nominee recognized for her role in Nickelodeon’s That Girl Lay Lay, will play Patty Newby.
The cast is rounded out with Alex Breaux taking on the role of Dr. Brenner, a character made famous by Matthew Modine in the television series. Breaux was recently announced as part of the fifth and final season of Stranger Things, which is currently in production, though details about his character in the series remain under wraps.
With a talented cast and a storyline that promises to delve deeper into the lore of Stranger Things, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is poised to be one of the most anticipated theatrical events in the coming years. Fans and theatergoers alike are eagerly awaiting the chance to experience this captivating prequel live on stage.
