Louis McCartney to Star in ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ on Broadway

As a seasoned theatergoer who has witnessed countless performances and met numerous talented actors, I must say that the news of Louis McCartney’s Broadway debut in “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” truly excites me. Having followed his career since his West End debut, I can attest to the electrifying energy he brings to the enigmatic character of Henry Creel. His recognition with prestigious awards only serves as a testament to his raw talent and dedication to his craft.


Louis McCartney is set to appear on Broadway for the first time in the show “Stranger Things: The First Shadow,” where he’ll be returning to his character, Henry Creel, a role he played in the critically acclaimed London production that won an Olivier Award.

Directors Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin expressed their incredible pride in Louis’s exceptional acting skills as Henry Creel onstage in the West End. They’ve always known he was unique, and they’re excited for Broadway audiences to see his breathtaking performance.

McCartney first appeared professionally on stage as Henry Creel in the West End’s “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” production, a role that won him both the 2024 Stage Debut Award for outstanding actor in a play and the Critics Circle Award for the most promising newcomer. His final performance in this West End show will take place on November 10th.

Additional casting for “The First Shadow” on Broadway will be announced at a later date.

The storyline in “The First Shadow” unfolds prior to the group from the Netflix series “Stranger Things,” consisting of Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike Wheeler (Finn Wolfhard), and Will Byers (Noah Schnapp), encountering the Upside Down. In essence, this play is set in Hawkins, 1959, a town with everyday concerns. Problems such as Jim Hopper’s car troubles, Bob Newby’s sister disregarding his radio show, and Joyce Maldonado’s desire to graduate and leave town are commonplace. However, the arrival of new student Henry Creel suggests that a simple fresh start isn’t possible, and the shadows of the past have an extended influence.

“The First Shadow” was penned by Kate Trefry, a screenwriter and executive producer from “Stranger Things”. This work is developed from an original idea by the creators of “Stranger Things”, Matt and Ross Duffer, in collaboration with Jack Thorne, author of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”, and Trefry.

The premiere of ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ is set to take place at the Marquis Theatre, starting with previews from March 28, 2025, before the official opening on April 22.

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2024-10-24 16:46