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On the day of the first preview performance of “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” on Broadway, Netflix has announced a new documentary charting the TV phenomenon’s successful adaptation into a hit stage play.
“Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things: The First Shadow” — set to premiere on April 15 on the streamer — is billed as “electrifying look backstage” at the making of the play before it launched in London’s West End in December 2023.
From director Jon Halperin, the feature will follow the cast and crew of the first “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” production as they race against time to prepare for its debut at the Phoenix Theater amid mounting anticipation. Alongside sell out performances and critical acclaim, the West End show — from Sonia Friedman Productions and directed by Stephen Daldry alongside Justin Martin — would land two Olivier Awards in 2024, for best entertainment of comedy play and for set design. Producers of the doc include Angus Wall, Kent Kubena, Terry Leonard, while Matt Bell serves as executive producer.
Alongside announcing the documentary, Netflix — together with Sonia Friedman Productions — have unveiled further first look production images of the Broadway show from the Marquis Theater.
Matthew Murphy
“The challenge is to create a visceral experience for the audience, where they feel shock and awe, surprise and delight,” said Daldry. “You have to deliver that. The fusion of television and theater is about the speed of narrative and how you create it … There are moments in the show where you will think: I don’t understand how they did that.”
Written by Kate Trefry and directed by Daldry, “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” — which was original created by The Duffer Brothers — is a prequel to the TV series and set in 1959. The story follows the Creel Family moving to Hawkins, Indiana for a fresh start, while the teenaged Henry Creel (Louis McCartney) finds new friends at a new school, but quickly discovers something dark hidden inside of him.
The play stars Rosie Benton, Alex Breaux, Ta’Rea Campbell, Juan Carlos, Robert T. Cunningham, Ayana Cymone, Ian Dolley, Dora Dolphin, Logan Gould and others.
Previews of “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” begin Mar. 28, with the show officially opening on Apr. 22.
