A ‘Stranger Things’ Prequel Set in 1959 Is Headed to Broadway

As a fan who has grown up alongside the eccentric and enigmatic world of Hawkins, I can hardly contain my excitement for “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” making its way to Broadway! Having lived through the rollercoaster of emotions that the Netflix series has delivered, it’s a dream come true to delve deeper into this alternate reality.

It seems that the popular series “Stranger Things” might be preparing for its fifth and last season, yet the intrigue of this sci-fi show continues with plans for a Broadway adaptation.

The initial performance of “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” took place on London’s West End towards the end of last year. This prequel, set 24 years prior to the Netflix series, offers a glimpse into the lives of characters like Jim Hopper, Joyce Maldonado, Bob Newby, and his sister Patty, who reside in Hawkins, Indiana during 1959.

In the good old days, life was as usual in Hawkins, 1959. Jim Hopper, a young man, had troubles starting his car, Bob Newby’s sister dismissed his radio show, and Joyce Maldonado yearned to graduate and leave town. The arrival of new student Henry Creel didn’t make things easier for his family; instead, they discovered that the past casts a long shadow and its effects are far from over.

After a successful premiere at the West End, “The First Shadow” has won two Olivier Awards – one for Best Comedy Play and another for Best Stage Design. The London run will conclude in February, but starting from March 2025, “The First Shadow” will be previewed on Broadway, with public shows to follow in April.

The screenplay for this play was penned by Kate Trefry, drawing inspiration from the initial concept created by the Duffer brothers, Jack Thorne, and herself. The three-hour performance is set to be directed by Stephen Daldry, with both Netflix and Sonia Friedman taking on the producer roles.

Read More