Written by Kate Trefry from an original story by North Carolina-born Matt and Ross Duffer, Stranger Things: The First Shadow transports us back to our beloved Hawkins, Indiana, in the 1950s. The story follows Henry Creel (played by Louis McCartney) before he becomes Vecna, the series’ supervillain. While navigating his new life in Indiana, Henry meets Patty Newby (played by Gabrielle Nevaeh), the adoptive daughter of Hawkins High’s Principal Newby and the sister of Bob Newby. Sparks fly when the pair meet at school, and as Henry helps Patty search for her biological mother, he faces a harrowing choice: whether to let the Mind Flayer in.
I think by now it’s safe to say that Season 5 of Stranger Things was controversial at best. But whether you were thrilled or disappointed by the grand finale, I’m sure we can all agree on one thing: the final episode left us wanting… more. If you’re itching to cure your post-Stranger Things depression this winter, Stranger Things: The First Shadow on Broadway is definitely worth the weekend trip to New York City.
For avid fans of the 1950s, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is for you. The play is steeped in ‘50s themes that exude from the costumes and sets. Acts I and II feature a neon-signed ’50s diner, jukebox dancing, corduroys and polo shirts, flannels and A-line dresses. Dora Dolphin, who portrays a young and flirtatious Karen Wheeler, is especially well-dressed, sporting Barbie-esque jumpsuits and a preppy green-and-orange cheerleading uniform that perfectly suits the era.
Along with the immensely talented leads, I would like to spotlight a few performances that stood out on stage. First, actor Juan Carlos does an outstanding job portraying Bob Newby. I was completely taken away by Carlos’s talent, especially when I learned that this was his Broadway debut. He is absolutely one to watch. Additionally, I really enjoyed the playful dynamic between young Joyce Maldonado and Jim Hopper (played by Alison Jaye and Burke Swanson). Swanson is the gritty, sarcastic Hopper that we all know and love, and Jaye takes the Joyce voice to a new and impressive level. Their on-stage chemistry brings a lightness and humor to the play, providing delicious and much-welcomed comic relief.
Lastly, this would not be a review of Stranger Things: The First Shadow if I did not mention the special effects. Broadway has completely revolutionized the theater with technology. As someone who has seen Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, I was thrilled to experience another play that incorporates these dazzling effects. When used well, technology not only transforms the way these stories are told but creates a beautiful and refreshing immersive experience for the audience. Stranger Things: The First Shadow does just that. While not entirely on the same level as Harry Potter — it’s difficult to beat real-time magic tricks and wands bursting fire through the air — the play’s special effects are stunning to watch. Some highlights include the life-sized Mind Flayer that drops over the audience like a giant fiery spider, the Upside Down particles that rain down from the ceiling during the opening scene, and the final, intense slow-motion fall of one character who, for spoiler reasons, I will not name.
Overall, Stranger Things: The First Shadow is worth the trek to New York City. Despite a few plot holes and only two very brief Demogorgon appearances, the story is delightfully entertaining, the characters skillfully crafted, and the special effects out of this world. If you are planning to spend some time in the city, I would recommend setting aside three hours to support the arts by watching this inventive, visually stunning triumph of a play.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
By Kate Trefry
Netflix & Sonia Friedman Productions
Premiered March 2025 at the Marquis Theatre on Broadway
Southern Review of Books 