The Upside Down has landed on Broadway, and the stars of Netflix’s Stranger Things turned out in force to celebrate.
On 22 April, the much-anticipated play Stranger Things: The First Shadow officially opened at the Marquis Theatre in New York City.
STRANGER THINGS CAST ON BROADWAY
The red carpet saw familiar faces such as Jamie Campbell Bower, Charlie Heaton, Natalia Dyer, Noah Schnapp, and Matthew Modine.
The Duffer Brothers, who are the masterminds behind the original series, were also spotted on the red carpet.
They posed grinning alongside executive producer Shawn Levy and Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, according to the New York Post.
STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW
The First Shadow is a prequel, set in 1959 Hawkins, Indiana, and dives deep into the origins of Henry Creel. Henry is the boy who grows up to be the terrifying Vecna.
As the story unfolds, Henry’s struggle with his dark powers takes centre stage. Audiences will also get to meet younger versions of beloved characters like Joyce, Hopper, and Bob.
Critics have called the play “a game-changing experience” and praised its jaw-dropping effects.
THE PRODUCTION TEAM
The Stranger Thingsproduction, directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, features a cast of 34 and promises to “turn Broadway upside down” with its suspense and heart-pounding drama.
On opening night, the energy was electric, and actress Natalia Dyer, who plays Nancy Wheeler, shared, “It’s surreal seeing our world come alive on stage.
Noah Schnapp, who plays fan favourite Will Byers on the Netflix show, declared, “This play is a must-watch for anyone who’s followed our journey. You’ll see Hawkins in a whole new light”.
STRANGER THINGS TV AND STAGE CAST
The event also saw touching moments between the TV and stage casts.
Matthew Modine, who plays Dr Brenner, was seen chatting with Alex Breaux, his Broadway counterpart, while Jamie Campbell Bower embraced Louis McCartney.
McCartney is the young actor portraying Henry Creel. “Louis is an astonishing actor, and we are unbelievably proud of the incredible life he has breathed into the role,” said director Stephen Daldry.
TICKET PRICES
Tickets for the show start at $86, which converts to roughly R1617. Any South Africans planning a trip to New York, give the show a try, it’s theatre experience not to be missed.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a gripping story about friendship, fear, and the darkness we all face. As the Duffer Brothers put it, “Can the power of friendship outshine the darkness within?”
WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM STRANGER THINGS FOR YOU?
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