Stranger Things: The First Shadow Reveals Exciting Broadway Casting Line-Up

The much-anticipated Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow is building momentum, with additional casting announced ahead of its previews at the Marquis Theatre on March 28, 2025. The theatrical prequel to Netflix’s iconic sci-fi series, set in 1959 Hawkins, Indiana, opens officially on April 22.

Leading the cast is WhatsOnStage Award nominee Louis McCartney, reprising his role as Henry Creel after originating the character in the London production. McCartney, who made his stage debut in 2023, recently concluded his run at the Phoenix Theatre on November 10. Complete casting for the Broadway run is expected to be revealed in January.

Joining McCartney are an impressive roster of performers, including:

• Rosie Benton as Virginia Creel
• Alex Breaux as Dr. Brenner
• Nicky Eldridge as Bob Newby
• Andrew Hovelson as Principal Newby
• Alison Jaye as Joyce Maldonado
• T.R. Knight as Victor Creel
• Gabrielle Nevaeh as Patty Newby

The production, written by Stranger Things series writer Kate Trefry, features a story developed alongside series creators the Duffer Brothers and playwright Jack Thorne. It is co-directed by Tony Award winners Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Crown) and Justin Martin (The Inheritance).

Set decades before the events of the Netflix series, The First Shadow explores the eerie happenings in 1959 Hawkins, focusing on a young Henry Creel as he uncovers sinister secrets about his family and their troubled history. Audiences will also encounter younger versions of beloved characters like Joyce Maldonado, Bob Newby, and Jim Hopper.

The production boasts an award-winning creative team, including:

• Set design: Miriam Buether
• Costume design: Brigitte Reiffenstuel
• Lighting design: Jon Clark
• Sound design: Paul Arditti
• Illusions and visual effects: Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher
• Video design: 59 Productions
• Original music and arrangements: DJ Walde
• Choreography: Coral Messam
• Movement direction: Lynne Page
• Wigs, hair, and make-up: Campbell Young Associates
• Technical direction: Gary Beestone

Currently playing to sold-out audiences in London, The First Shadow has garnered critical acclaim, winning the Olivier Award for Best Entertainment. With its stellar Broadway team and cast, the production aims to replicate this success stateside.