The critically acclaimed Stranger Things: The First Shadow has announced a final extension in the West End, with performances now set to run at the Phoenix Theatre until 27 December 2026.
The stage prequel to the hit Netflix series has become a major theatrical event since opening in 2023, earning widespread five-star reviews and multiple awards including Best Entertainment and Best Set Design at the Olivier Awards.
The production has also enjoyed huge success on Broadway, where it will conclude its run at the Marquis Theatre on 3 January 2027 after winning four Tony Awards in 2025.
Across London and New York, the show has sold nearly 1.6 million tickets and played over 1,500 performances, attracting a new generation of theatre audiences.
Matt and Ross Duffer, creators of Stranger Things, said, “When the legendary Stephen Daldry first came to us with the idea of making a Stranger Things play, we were stunned — both by the fact that Stephen wanted to do this, and that he believed it could work. And boy, did it work.
“We remain awed by what Stephen, Kate Trefry, Justin Martin, and all the brilliant behind-the-scenes wizards were able to pull off: cinematic theater unlike anything else out there. Their incredible work drew audiences from all over — a majority of whom had never even been to a Broadway show before.
“We’d also like to give a standing ovation to the incredibly gifted actors who stepped into these roles — including the Tony-nominated Louis McCartney — and to the fans, who made each and every performance so memorable.”
Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix, added, “Stranger Things: The First Shadow represents an unprecedented collaboration between television and theatre, showing what’s possible when a world class creative team brings a beloved and iconic series to life on stage. It has been a privilege to share this production with audiences over the past few years and particularly rewarding to see it introduce so many to the magic of theatre.”
Co-producer Sonia Friedman said, “We are incredibly proud of the ambition, imagination and artistry that every member of the company has brought to creating something truly groundbreaking. Together, they have pushed the boundaries of live theatre to tell this story with heart, adventure and spectacle.”
Writer Kate Trefry commented, “While writing Stranger Things, we always knew there was more to the story of Henry Creel, but never imagined we would have the chance to tell it all. Being given the opportunity to dive deeper into this world through the medium of live theater has been the thrill of a lifetime, and I am still in awe of what our incredible cast and crew was able to achieve.”
Directors Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin added, “To be entrusted with bringing The Duffer Brothers’ incredible creation to the stage has been an utter joy. We are immensely proud of the talent and dedication of the cast and creative team over the past three years – each and every member an integral part of the process of bringing this story to life.”
Associate producer Shawn Levy said, “This theatrical experience has been incredibly gratifying. The First Shadow has allowed us to expand and deepen the storytelling, characters and audience experience of our Stranger Things franchise.”
The production marks Netflix’s first major venture into theatre, combining cutting-edge stagecraft with the supernatural storytelling that made the original series a global phenomenon.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
