‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ Trailer Teases Horrific Rise of Henry Creel as West End Play Extends Into 2025

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“Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” the stage play based on Netflix’s hit sci-fi drama of the same name, will extend its run on London’s West End into 2025. Previously, shows were only scheduled through Dec. 14, but tickets are now available through Feb. 16.

The news comes as Netflix debuts an official trailer for “The First Shadow,” which serves as a “Stranger Things” prequel. Set in 1959 Hawkins, Ind., “The First Shadow” tells the origin story of Henry Creel, a new kid in town who later goes on to become Vecna, the villain introduced in “Stranger Things” Season 4.

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“I’m normal. It’s not real,” a distressed Henry Creel (Louis McCartney) says to himself over and over in the trailer. “I know you think you’re bad, but you can fight it,” another voice tells him, while others say “You can’t outrun the shadow, Henry,” and “You are the shadow.”

Though it’s unusual that a streamer would release promotional materials for a stage play that — as of yet — has no filmed version announced to be in the works, the making of the trailer speaks to Netflix’s heavy investment in the the IP’s viability as a larger franchise as the TV series approaches its fifth and final season. For example, the play looks to be headed to Broadway in 2025, and an animated “Stranger Things” series was greenlit at the streamer in 2023.

“Stranger Things: The First Shadow” was written by Kate Trefry from a story by Trefry, original series creators Ross and Matt Duffer, and Jack Thorne. Stephen Daldry serves as director, with co-director Justin Martin. The Duffers act as creative producers, with 21 Laps Entertainment as associate producer. The play hails from Netflix and Sonia Friedman Productions.

See the trailer below.

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