Plot and 1959 Hawkins Origins
In 1959 Hawkins, a seemingly ordinary town faces everyday troubles: young Jim Hopper's car won't start, Bob Newby's sister dismisses his radio dreams, and Joyce Maldonado yearns to escape post-graduation. The arrival of new student Henry Creel disrupts this normalcy, as his family's fresh start unravels amid violent crimes and lingering shadows from the past.
The narrative dives deep into Stranger Things lore, exploring Henry Creel's transformation and ties to the Upside Down. Stunning stagecraft by designers like Miriam Buether and 59 Productions makes supernatural elements visceral, from eerie projections to illusions that rival the show's TV effects.
This prequel stands alone, requiring no series knowledge, yet rewards fans with canon-expanding revelations that bridge to Season 5 events.
Awards and Critical Acclaim
Stranger Things: The First Shadow swept 2025 awards, securing Tony wins for Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design, and a Special Tony. Outer Critics Circle honored its sound, lighting, and scenic achievements, while Drama Desk and Theatre World Awards celebrated debuts and designs.
Louis McCartney's reprisal of Henry Creel earned Tony and Drama League nominations. Directed by Oscar-nominee Stephen Daldry, the production's technical mastery has been hailed as boundary-pushing theater.
Box Office Success and Tickets
Hitting record highs, the show grossed $1,917,540 in the week ending December 21, 2025, nearly maxing out its 1,594 seats at 99.49% capacity. Earlier weeks showed steady climbs, from $1.3 million to over $1.9 million, with average tickets at $151 and top prices at $379.
December 22-28 features packed shows: Monday/Tuesday at 7pm, Wednesday/Sunday at 1pm/7pm, Friday/Saturday at 1pm/7pm. Rush tickets are $40 in-person at the box office, limited to two per person. The run extends into 2026, promising more Upside Down thrills.
Produced by Netflix and Sonia Friedman, it's a global phenomenon drawing sci-fi fans and theater lovers alike.