Stranger Things – The First Shadow review: The theatrical spin-off from the Netflix mega-hit is funny and thrilling

The popular television franchise, Stranger Things, has expanded its reach into the realm of theatre with a new play premiering in London's West End. The play has been met with success, standing as a testament to the show's global appeal. The 1980s-themed science fiction series has become a cultural phenomenon over its four seasons, catapulting young actors like Millie Bobby Brown and Sadie Sink to stardom. Veteran actors such as Winona Ryder and David Harbour have also seen a resurgence in their careers. The show's influence extends beyond the screen, inspiring clothing lines, merchandise, and even a renewed interest in the fantasy role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons. With the fifth and final season delayed due to strikes, Stranger Things has ventured into the West End with an original play. The play, directed by Stephen Daldry and written by Kate Trefry, is based on a story by Trefry, Jack Thorne, and the Duffer Brothers. Reports suggest that the play may be headed for Broadway, with two more stage adaptations under consideration.

Stranger Things: The First Shadow serves as a prequel to the series. The play opens with a depiction of the mythical Philadelphia Experiment, a conspiracy theory about a military test conducted by the US Navy in 1943. The experiment allegedly resulted in the USS Eldridge becoming invisible and teleporting to a distant location. This dramatic opening sets the tone for the play. The narrative then shifts to the familiar setting of Hawkins, Indiana, in 1959. The audience is introduced to younger versions of characters from the television series. Joyce Maldonado, an aspiring theatre director, is staging the school show. Bob Newby, who harbours unrequited feelings for Joyce, runs his own radio show. Jim Hopper, a car enthusiast, has a strained relationship with his father, the town's police chief. A new character, Henry Creel, moves to Hawkins with his family following an unfortunate incident in their previous town. He forms a bond with Patty Newby, Bob's adoptive sister, over their shared love of comics and their status as outsiders.

The play's visual effects are impressive, but the strength of the play lies in the characters and the actors' portrayals. Joyce is expected to stage the traditional musical, Oklahoma! , but she has other plans. She decides to stage Dark of the Moon, a peculiar play about a witch boy who falls in love with a human girl. Henry and Patty are cast in the play. Meanwhile, the town is plagued by a series of pet killings. Bob, Hopper, and Joyce embark on a mission to find the culprit, with Joyce's play playing a crucial role in their investigation. The First Shadow captures the frenetic energy of the television series, balanced with moments of reflection. The play also features unexpected comedy and a surprise musical number. The set design effectively evokes a range of locations, from a school locker room to a sinister laboratory. The sound design incorporates musical themes from the series. The actors deliver strong performances, bringing their characters to life. The play could potentially boost the careers of these young actors, much like the television series did. The play is a successful addition to the Stranger Things universe, providing an enjoyable experience filled with thrills, laughter, and surprises.