"I have been going to Broadway shows since I was a kid growing up in Westchester NY. This was one of the best shows I have ever seen. The Actors were fantastic, and the plot (without ruining the show) was a bit different from the series, but was absolutely fantastic. It was a prequel to the series, so it was nice not to compare the Broadway Actors to the series Actors. It was absolutely fantastic. A must see! "
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Tracey F from Middletown on May 17, 2026
Stranger Things: The First Shadow - Prepare for High-octane Stagecraft!
"A theatrical marvel that sets a new benchmark for live entertainment. It pairs a gripping origin story with jaw-dropping special effects, delivering an unforgettable, must-see experience for fans of the franchise. The production completely redefines what is possible on a theater stage. The special effects and pyrotechnics are genuinely mind-boggling. Every burst, flash, and illusion raises your heart rate and leaves you wondering, "How did they do that?" but not recommended for young children. The cast brings staggering emotional depth to the stage. The story is rich enough to stand firmly on its own, while expertly dropping lore that ties perfectly into the final Netflix seasons."
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Andrew D from Rome on May 17, 2026
Fantastic
"There was nothing I did t like. I took my almost 16 year old daughter as a birthday gift. We are very big stranger things fans and it did not disappoint. I would see it 10 more times if I could!"
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Michele S from Niskayuna on May 17, 2026
My son loved it
"It was an amazing performance that left us wondering what was real and what was pre-filmed and played on screen. The magical elements are outstanding. My son, who loved the show, said it was the best show he’s ever seen (and we take him to see everything). "
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Ruy G from Jackson Heights on May 16, 2026
A-mazed!!
"The set and storyline were absolutely fantastic, drawing me in completely. I was genuinely scared multiple times and found myself eagerly immersed in every moment. I can't wait to watch it again if the chance arises. A must-see experience!"
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Jack W from Rock Hill on May 15, 2026
Goosebumps!
"I got goosebumps more than half a dozen times because I felt a part of the production--REAL! The special effects and costumes were amazing. The lead actor was exceptional and convincing. I would not recommend for children if foul language offends their parents."
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Linda H from Newport News on May 13, 2026
Performances and special effects are amazing!
"Really great show! I love all of the nods to the television series, and the actor playing the main character (a younger 001) was amazing. The special effects are also pretty jaw-dropping, and unlike anything I've ever seen for a live performance. It really opens up some new possibilities for theater, honestly, and worth seeing for that reason alone."
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Julie A from Hollister on May 13, 2026
Fantastic prequel for fans of the tv show
"As mentioned above and no spoilers but this was such a great show! Set in the 1950s it is a prequel with all your favourite Hawkins characters brought to life.
The special FX are out of this world and bring the story to life.
Great characters and brilliant acting and cast.
Just my opinion, but a fantastic story which totally rounds off the whole Stranger Things TV show!!
One to watch if you’re visiting NYC!!"
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Broadway.com Customer on May 12, 2026
Fantastic! Must see!
"This doesn’t apply to my family but it might be a little much for young children. Language, explosions etc "
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Broadway.com Customer on May 11, 2026
Super sound effects.
"I liked everything. It was very loud. Special effects were phenomenal. Intermission could’ve been longer, crazy lines for ladies room. People should familiarize themselves with the series, so they can relate to the characters."
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Broadway.com Customer on May 11, 2026
Just go!
"Do your Stranger Things homework and then go see this incredible production. If this show runs its course without you seeing it, you will have missed one of the most incredible productions. It’s the reason Broadway exists. Wow!"
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Riff W from Aledo on May 9, 2026
First Broadway show for our family!
"We loved the Stranger Things tv show, so this was a great way to keep that energy going. The acting was amazing, the sets and effects were stunning, and the moments of interacting with the audience was fun. It was amazing, my kids still can’t stop talking about it and it’s been 5 days. "
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Broadway.com Customer on May 6, 2026
Fantastic, but maybe not for little kids.
"It’s absolutely spectacular! An absolute MUST for Stranger Things diehards. It was brilliantly acted, and flowed very well. That said, some language and references or innuendo were adult themed and a lot of young kids were there. The swears were completely unnecessary, really, but made it more PG-13. "
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Broadway.com Customer on May 4, 2026
Stranger Things On Broadway
"We walked in expecting something good… and walked out completely blown away.
From the very first moment, the show grips you with nonstop suspense. It’s intense in the best way. Layered with tension, unexpected twists, and that eerie, edge-of-your-seat feeling that makes you forget you’re even in a theater. Every scene builds perfectly, pulling you deeper and deeper into the story.
And then there are the special effects. They were absolutely insane. Not just “good for Broadway,” but genuinely jaw-dropping. The kind of effects that make you question how they’re even being pulled off live. It feels cinematic, immersive, and at times, downright unbelievable.
What really sets it apart, though, is how seamlessly it blends storytelling with spectacle. It’s not just flash. The emotional weight, the mystery, the performances—they all hit just as hard as the visuals.
Bottom line… this isn’t just a play, it’s an experience. If you’re even remotely a fan of Stranger Things, or just love a show that keeps your heart racing, this is one you can’t miss."
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John H from Savannah on May 3, 2026
Getting to know Henry!
"Stranger Things on Broadway?? ABSOLUTE CHAOS (the good kind).
Like—what did I just experience?? My brain is still somewhere in the Upside Down and my heart is racing. The theatrics were INSANE. Lights, sound, effects… I swear at one point I forgot I was sitting in a theater and not actively fighting a demogorgon myself.
The story?? So good. Dark, intense, emotional, and had me fully locked in the entire time. Not a single dull moment—just one “OH SH*T” after another.
And the cast?? They did not come to play—they came to POSSESS the stage. Every scene felt huge and alive and slightly unhinged in the best way possible.
10/10 recommend. Go see it. Bring snacks. Maybe emotional support. Maybe a flashlight. I don’t know. Just go."
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Kimberly W from Davenport on Apr 29, 2026
Phenomenal
"This was one of the most incredible pieces of theatrical entertainment I have ever seen. I can’t believe how good Henry Creel and Joyce Maldonado were. Especially Joyce, it was like watching Winona Rider she was so good. The special effects blew us all away. Our whole group has been to a handful of shows and this was hands down the best one we have ever been to. I’m already planning on going again. "
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Molly H from Peterborough on Apr 27, 2026
A happy Rockaway family !
"Saw it on Saturday April 25th. It was outstanding!! Very well done. Unbelievable special effects!! Would highly recommend! For kids age 13 and older I would say. A few jumpy scenes. It really brought the series to life !"
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Broadway.com Customer on Apr 26, 2026
It was the best thing I ever watched!!!!
"Very engaging! I have the attention span of a fish and this show was sooo amazing that I actually wanted to watch more when it was done. I highly recommend this if you ever get the chance to watch any broadway show!!! Five stars from me!!! "
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Broadway.com Customer on Apr 26, 2026
Running Up That Hill… Straight Into the Upside Down
"If you’re a Stranger Things fan, this play is an absolute must-see. The storyline is tight and engaging, pulling you right into that eerie, nostalgic world we all love—but what really takes it to another level are the special effects. They’re seriously mind-blowing for a stage production. Add in a cast that delivers across the board, and you’ve got something truly special. From start to finish, it’s an immersive, electrifying experience that left me completely wowed."
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Vanessa L from Austin on Apr 25, 2026
It is amazing, spectacular !
"We loved the show. C’est une dinguerie !"
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maryline s from Chasseneuil-du-Poitou on Apr 24, 2026
Blown away
"Visual effects were amazing, good acting, good story, everything was just spectacular "
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Greet V from Wijnegem on Mar 11, 2026
Amazing show
"The play was amazing. I love how it tied into the show. My daughter is 12 and she absolutely loved it. She hasn’t stopped talking about it since we left. What was pulled off on that stage was nothing short of amazing. I would see this show over and over again. "
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Malissa L from Longwood on Mar 8, 2026
Mind Blowing
"This was my first Broadway experience, and I could not have been more impressed by the performance of the actors, the special effects, and just the overall experience. I have never watched the Netflix series, but I am literally obsessed with the play! I would recommend the show for anyone ages 10+. Some scary parts. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Mar 6, 2026
My daughter loved the show!
"I loved everything, very good sound, effects! Very organized as well."
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Broadway.com Customer on Mar 6, 2026
Amazing!!!
"Widely entertaining and exciting! Great way to continue on the legacy of the show! My 11 year old loved it as well. There is some mild language but that’s it. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Mar 3, 2026
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About
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Before the world turned upside down. Hawkins, 1959: a regular town with regular worries. Young Jim Hopper’s car won’t start, Bob Newby’s sister won’t take his radio show seriously and Joyce Maldonado just wants to graduate and get the hell out of town. When new student Henry Creel arrives, his family finds that a fresh start isn’t so easy...and the shadows of the past have a very long reach.
From Netflix and the multi-award-winning Broadway producer Sonia Friedman Productions comes Stranger Things: The First Shadow. Winner of two Olivier Awards including Best Entertainment, this landmark production is brought to life by an award-winning creative team including director Stephen Daldry (The Crown, Billy Elliot, The Inheritance, The Hours, The Reader) and co-director Justin Martin (Prima Facie, The Inheritance). With stunning special effects, extraordinary performances, and a storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this gripping, stand-alone adventure will take you right back to the beginnings of the Stranger Things story.
