The lights went dark at the Stranger Things Broadway show, the music swelled, and my daughter grabbed my arm so tight neither of us breathed for a full minute.
I am a lifelong nerd and a proud mom of an equally nerdy teenage daughter. We have been Stranger Things fans since the very beginning. So when Stranger Things: The First Shadow came to Broadway, we knew we had to go.
Stranger Things Broadway: The First Shadow
We packed our bags and headed straight to New York City. But first, I had SO many questions. How much do tickets cost? What is the Stranger Things Broadway plot actually about? Is the stage door worth it?
I searched everywhere and could not find one post that answered everything. So I decided to write it myself.
This is our full, honest Stranger Things Broadway review. We are covering everything from tickets and cast to the stage door experience and so much more. If you are considering seeing the Stranger Things Broadway show, this post is for you.
What Exactly Is the Stranger Things Broadway Show?
Before we get into all the details of our trip, let me answer the question I get asked most. What actually IS the Stranger Things Broadway show?
First and most importantly, this is NOT a musical. I want to say that loudly for the people in the back. Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a straight stage play. There is no singing. There are no big choreographed song and dance numbers. Instead, what you get is a jaw-dropping, edge of your seat theatrical experience unlike anything I have ever seen on a stage.
So What Is the Stranger Things Broadway Plot?
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a prequel story. It takes place in Hawkins, Indiana in 1959, which is decades before Will, Mike, Eleven, or any of the characters you know from the Netflix series ever enter the picture.
The story centers on a young boy named Henry Creel. If you are a fan of the show, that name will send chills straight down your spine. For newcomers, Henry Creel is the origin story of one of the most terrifying villains in the entire Stranger Things universe. This play shows you exactly how it all began.
The Duffer Brothers, the creators of the Netflix series, were deeply involved in bringing this story to the stage. That involvement shows in every single detail. This does not feel like a cash grab or a spin off. It feels like a true and essential piece of the Stranger Things story.
Do You Need to Watch the Show First?
Here is where it gets really interesting, and honestly this surprised me.
The short answer is no. You do not need to be a Stranger Things fan to enjoy Stranger Things: The First Shadow on Broadway.
My mom came with us to the show. She has never seen a single episode of Stranger Things on Netflix. Not one. She walked into that theater with zero context and still had an incredible time. The play works completely on its own as a piece of theatre. The story is compelling, the characters are engaging, and the production is spectacular regardless of what you know going in.
However, if you ARE a fan of the show, the experience is on an entirely different level. Every Easter egg, every callback, every knowing nod to the larger Stranger Things universe hit us like a freight train. My daughter and I were grabbing each other’s arms every few minutes whispering “Did you catch that?!”
And here is the best part. My mom left the theater and immediately told us she wanted to go home and start watching Stranger Things on Netflix. That is the power of this show. It works as a standalone story AND as a gateway into the larger world.
So whether you are a die-hard fan or a complete newcomer, the Stranger Things Broadway show truly has something for everyone.
How to Get Stranger Things Broadway Show Tickets (And What We Paid)
Okay, let’s talk money. Because I know that is one of the first things everyone wants to know before planning a trip like this. How much do Stranger Things Broadway show tickets actually cost and where do you even buy them?
Where to Buy Your Tickets
There are a few different places you can purchase Stranger Things Broadway show tickets. Here are your main options:
The official Stranger Things Broadway website is always my first recommendation. It is straightforward, reliable, and you know you are getting legitimate tickets directly from the source.
Telecharge is another trusted option and is one of Broadway’s most established ticketing platforms. You can find the full seat map here and choose exactly where you want to sit.
TodayTix is a great app based option that is especially popular for last minute tickets. It is user friendly and often has good availability.
The TKTS Discount Booth in Times Square is worth knowing about if you are flexible on timing. You can often find same day or next day discounted Broadway tickets here. However, availability is never guaranteed so I would not rely on this if seeing the show is the whole reason for your trip.
How Much Do Stranger Things Broadway Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on where you sit in the theater. Here is a general breakdown of what to expect:
Orchestra seats are the main floor seats and are typically the most expensive option. These put you closest to the stage.
Mezzanine seats are on the first level above the orchestra. These are my personal recommendation and I will tell you exactly why in a moment.
Rear and balcony seats are the most budget-friendly option and can be a great way to see the show without spending as much.
What We Actually Paid
I bought our tickets about three weeks in advance directly from the official Stranger Things Broadway website. Getting seats was honestly much easier than I expected. I was not fighting anyone for tickets or refreshing the page frantically. I simply went on, picked our seats, and checked out.
We sat in the mezzanine and paid $88 per ticket. Honestly, I felt like that was a fantastic deal for what we experienced. Our view was excellent. We could see the entire stage perfectly and the elevated angle actually made some of the more spectacular production moments even more impressive.
I did not come across any obvious VIP or premium experience packages when I was purchasing. If that is something important to you, I would recommend checking the official site closer to your visit as offerings can change.
Is the Stranger Things Broadway Show Appropriate for Kids?
This is such an important question and I am glad you asked it.
My daughter is 13 years old and she absolutely loved every single minute of it. There are a few curse words scattered throughout the show, but nothing beyond what you already hear in the Netflix series itself. There is nothing sexual or inappropriate in the production. It is a story driven theatrical experience first and foremost.
When we were there I noticed plenty of kids who appeared to be younger than my daughter in the audience with their parents. So clearly families are bringing children of all ages.
That said, this is absolutely a parental judgment call. You know your child best. If they are a Stranger Things fan and can handle the intensity of the show, they will almost certainly be fine. If your child is sensitive to dark themes or scary imagery, just keep that in mind when deciding.
Where Is the Stranger Things Broadway Show Located + NYC Tips
Let’s talk logistics. Because getting there is half the battle, especially when you are heading into New York City for the first time or planning a special trip around the show.
The Stranger Things Broadway Location
The Stranger Things Broadway show is currently playing at the Marquis Theatre in New York City. The address is 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.
Here is something really cool that not everyone knows before they arrive. The Marquis Theatre is actually located inside the Marriott Marquis Hotel right in the heart of Times Square. So when you walk into the hotel lobby, you are already in the right place. Just follow the signage and the crowd and you will find your way.
The Times Square location means you are surrounded by absolutely everything. Restaurants, shops, attractions, and the full electric energy of New York City are all right outside your door. It is a fantastic area to make a full day or weekend out of your visit.
How We Got There
We flew in from Florida a few days before the show. Since we arrived early we had time to settle in and actually enjoy the city before the big day.
We stayed at the InterContinental Hotel during our trip, and honestly, the location could not have been more perfect. The walk to the Marquis Theatre from the InterContinental was only about 5 to 7 minutes on foot. We simply walked over on the day of the show, which made the whole experience completely stress-free.
If you are traveling from out of state and flying into the city, I would strongly recommend building in at least a day or two before the show. New York City deserves more than just a quick in and out trip. Give yourself time to explore, eat great food, and soak in everything Times Square has to offer while you are there.
What Time Should You Arrive?
My biggest tip here is simple. Get there early. Earlier than you think you need to.
Our show started at 1:00 PM and we arrived at noon, a full hour before showtime. There was already a line when we got there. However, by the time the doors opened at around 1:40 PM, the line behind us had grown into something massive. It was wrapping through the entire hotel lobby area.
Getting there an hour early was absolutely the right call. We were relaxed, comfortable, and did not feel rushed at all. If you arrive any later than 30 minutes before showtime, expect to be waiting in a significant crowd.
What to Expect in the Lobby
I want to be upfront with you here because I saw some posts online that made it sound like the lobby experience was incredibly immersive. Honestly, it was not over the top in terms of theming.
The actual theater lobby is fairly small. There is a bar on each level serving drinks and snacks which is great for grabbing something before the show or at intermission. However, do not expect a full Hawkins themed walkthrough experience when you step inside.
One thing worth noting is that the merchandise is sold before you even enter the theater lobby itself. You will find the merch area out in the hotel space before you reach the actual theater entrance. There was some decor in that area, but nothing that stopped us in our tracks. So if buying merch is on your list, and I highly recommend it, factor in extra time before the show to browse and purchase.
Bags, Phones and What to Know Before You Go In
The staff does check bags at entry, so keep that in mind and pack light if you can. A small crossbody bag or backpack is perfectly fine but be prepared to open it up at the door.
As with all Broadway shows, no photography or video is allowed during the performance. This is strictly enforced. Get your photos and videos in before the show starts and save the documentation for before and after.
We did not personally use or inquire about a coat check during our visit. Given that the lobby space is fairly compact, I would recommend wearing layers you are comfortable keeping with you or checking ahead of time with the theater directly.
Stranger Things Broadway Cast: Who Plays Who?
One of the most common questions I see asked about the Stranger Things Broadway show is about the cast. Who is in it? Are they good? Do they do the characters justice?
The short answer is yes. Absolutely, completely, without question yes.
Let me break down the key Stranger Things Broadway cast members you need to know about.
Louis McCartney as Young Henry Creel
This is the performance you will not stop thinking about for days after you leave the theater.
Louis McCartney originated the role of Henry Creel on the West End in London and brought it to Broadway for the American debut. He earned a Tony Award nomination for this role, and after seeing him perform, that nomination makes complete sense.
Here is the part of our story that still gives me chills. We had no idea when we booked our tickets that we would be attending Louis McCartney’s very last performance ever in this role. His final show was March 15, 2026, and that is the exact performance we saw. We witnessed history and did not even realize it until after.
The role of Henry Creel is extraordinarily demanding both physically and emotionally. Louis McCartney threw himself into every single moment on that stage. The physicality of this performance is unlike anything I have seen before. There were moments where my daughter and I just looked at each other with our mouths open. He carried the entire weight of this show on his shoulders and made it look breathtaking.
Following his departure, the role of Henry Creel transitioned to Victor de Paula Rocha starting March 31, 2026, as the production moved into its second year cast.
T.R. Knight as Victor Creel
Yes, THAT T.R. Knight. George O’Malley from Grey’s Anatomy himself.
T.R. Knight brings his Emmy Award-nominated talent to the role of Victor Creel, the patriarch of the Creel family. Seeing a familiar face from one of the most beloved medical dramas of all time in a completely different and deeply dark role was genuinely thrilling. He is outstanding in this part.
Alex Breaux as Young Dr. Brenner
Here is a fun fact that Stranger Things fans will love. Alex Breaux, who plays the young Dr. Brenner on Broadway, is also a series regular in the fifth and final season of Stranger Things on Netflix, where he plays Lieutenant Robert Akers. So he is living in the Stranger Things universe on both stage and screen simultaneously. How cool is that?
We got to meet Alex at the stage door and he was absolutely wonderful.
Gabrielle Nevaeh as Patty Newby
Emmy Award nominee Gabrielle Nevaeh, known for Nickelodeon’s That Girl Lay Lay, plays Patty Newby.
She was a total standout and her energy on stage was magnetic.
We met her at the stage door and she was incredibly warm and gracious with every single fan.
Juan Carlos as Bob Newby
If you are a Stranger Things fan, the name Bob Newby already has a special place in your heart.
Juan Carlos brings such charm and warmth to this younger version of the character. Fans of Bob from the show will absolutely love seeing where his story begins.
Juan Carlos also came out to the stage door and was wonderful with everyone waiting.
Robert T. Cunningham as Charles Sinclair
Robert T. Cunningham brings Charles Sinclair to life in a role that connects beautifully to the larger Stranger Things world.
He was another stage door highlight and could not have been more gracious with fans.
Francesca Yhlen as Alice Creel
Francesca Yhlen plays Alice Creel and holds her own beautifully alongside a powerhouse cast. The Creel family dynamic is central to the entire story and every member of that family unit delivers.
She was absolutely adorable and one of our favorite stage door moments of the whole night. Her mom actually walked out with her to the stage door, and honestly it was the sweetest thing we witnessed all evening. It was such a genuine, heartwarming moment in the middle of all the excitement. My daughter loved every second of it.
A Note About Cast Changes
This is really important to know before you go. Broadway casts change. Understudies perform on certain nights. Principal cast members take days off.
The best way to know exactly who is performing on your specific night is to check the official Stranger Things Broadway website close to your visit date. You can also follow the show on social media for any cast announcements or changes.
If seeing a specific cast member is important to you, especially if there is a transition period happening, make sure to do your research ahead of time. We had no idea we were seeing Louis McCartney’s final performance. Looking back, I am so glad we did not know in advance because it made the discovery afterward even more magical. But if I had known, I absolutely would have planned around it.
Stranger Things Broadway Plot: What’s the Story? (Spoiler-Light)
I want to talk about the Stranger Things Broadway plot without ruining anything for you. That is a delicate balance because so much of what makes this story incredible is the experience of discovering it yourself. So I am going to give you just enough to get you excited without taking anything away from you.
Welcome to Hawkins, 1959
The Stranger Things: The First Shadow story takes place thirty years before the events of the Netflix series. We are in Hawkins, Indiana in 1959. It is a small town with small town problems. People know each other’s business. Everyone has secrets. And on the surface, life looks perfectly ordinary.
Then the Creel family arrives.
A new family moving to a small town should be unremarkable. But nothing about the Creels is ordinary. Something followed them to Hawkins. Something that was already there long before they arrived.
Young Henry Creel
At the center of everything is a young boy named Henry Creel. He is quiet. He is different. He does not fit in and he knows it.
If you have watched the Netflix series, you already know where Henry’s story ultimately leads. But watching it begin is something else entirely.
Henry is not simply a villain origin story. He is a deeply complex character who makes you feel things you do not expect to feel. Louis McCartney’s performance in this role adds layers upon layers to a character you thought you already understood. You will leave the theater seeing the entire Stranger Things universe differently.
The Themes That Hit Hard
The Stranger Things Broadway plot explores themes that go far beyond supernatural horror. This is a story about outcasts who do not belong. It is about first love and the way small moments can change everything. It is about family secrets that fester in the dark. It is about what happens when the people who are supposed to protect you fail to do so.
Sound familiar? These are the same themes that made the Netflix series so beloved in the first place. The Duffer Brothers and writer Kate Trefry understood exactly what makes Stranger Things resonate with people and they brought all of it to the stage.
Easter Eggs and Callbacks for Fans
If you are a fan of the show, bring your full attention to every single detail on that stage. The Easter eggs and callbacks woven throughout the Stranger Things: The First Shadow plot are absolutely everywhere. Character names, locations, references, and moments that connect directly to the Netflix series are buried throughout the entire production.
My daughter and I spent the entire intermission and the whole walk back to our hotel whispering about everything we had caught. And then we got home and found even more things we had missed. This is the kind of show you will want to see more than once just to catch everything.
I am not going to spoil any of them here. Part of the joy is discovering them yourself.
How It All Connects
Here is what I will tell you without spoiling a single thing. The Stranger Things Broadway plot does not just add background detail to the series. It fundamentally enriches the entire story. Things you thought you understood about the show will suddenly make more sense. Moments from the Netflix series will hit differently after you have seen this play.
And the ending of the show brings you right to the edge of where Season 1 of Stranger Things begins. The lights come down and you feel the full weight of everything that is coming. It is a genuinely stunning piece of storytelling.
Whether you are a die hard fan or a newcomer, the Stranger Things: The First Shadow plot delivers a complete and powerful story from beginning to end. It just happens to also be the key that unlocks everything else.
The Special Effects Are Wild: Here’s What to Expect
If you are on the fence about whether the Stranger Things Broadway show is worth the trip and the money, this section is going to push you right over the edge. Because what this production does on a live stage is something I genuinely did not think was possible.
I need to talk about the special effects.
We Saw Harry Potter the Night Before
Let me give you some context first because I think it really drives home just how extraordinary this production is.
The night before we saw Stranger Things: The First Shadow, we saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway. If you have seen that show, you already know that its theatrical magic and special effects are jaw dropping. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is widely considered one of the most technically impressive productions in Broadway history.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow topped it.
I say that with full respect to the Harry Potter production because that show is also incredible. But when the effects started happening in Stranger Things, my daughter and I looked at each other with an expression that said we could not believe what we were seeing with our own eyes. On a live stage. In real time. In front of us.
What the Effects Actually Feel Like
I am not going to spoil the specific moments because discovering them is a huge part of the experience. What I will tell you is this.
The Upside Down comes to life on that stage in a way that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. The lighting design is absolutely masterful. It shifts the entire atmosphere of the theater in an instant. One moment you are in sunny 1959 Hawkins and the next moment the world feels genuinely wrong and terrifying.
The sound design deserves its own standing ovation. Sound surrounds you completely. It does not feel like you are watching something happen on a stage. It feels like you are inside the Stranger Things world. The audio alone creates a sense of dread and wonder that pulls you completely out of your seat and into Hawkins.
The creature and puppetry effects are something else entirely. I will say no more than that. Just be ready.
The Set Design Is a Character of Its Own
The scenic design by Miriam Buether won a Tony Award and after seeing it in person, that makes total sense. The stage transforms in ways that feel physically impossible. The scale of what they achieve in that theater is staggering.
Every detail of 1959 Hawkins is meticulously crafted. The world feels lived in and real right up until the moment it does not. And that contrast is exactly what makes the terrifying moments land so hard.
My Daughter’s Reaction Says Everything
My daughter was absolutely electric with excitement from the moment the effects kicked in.
She was gasping. She was grabbing my arm. She was bouncing in her seat during intermission unable to stop talking about what she had just seen. She was completely and utterly engaged from the first moment to the very last.
That kind of reaction from a 13 year old who has seen a lot of movies and shows and who is not easily impressed tells you everything you need to know. This production does not just meet expectations. It blows them out of the water completely.
The Bottom Line on the Production
The Stranger Things Broadway production is a landmark theatrical achievement. It won four Tony Awards including Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design, Best Sound Design, and Special Effects. Watching it live you understand completely why.
If you have ever sat in a theater and felt like you were genuinely transported somewhere else, this show does that better than anything I have ever experienced. It is not just a great Stranger Things experience. It is a great human experience. One of those rare nights you know you will be talking about for years.
How Long Is Stranger Things Broadway? Runtime and Intermission Details
One of the most searched questions about any Broadway show is how long it runs. Especially when you are planning a full day in New York City around it. So let me answer that right away.
Stranger Things Broadway Run Time
The Stranger Things Broadway run time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. That includes one intermission of roughly 15 minutes.
So plan for about a three-hour commitment from the time you take your seat to the final bow. Factor that into your dinner plans, transportation, and anything else you have scheduled for the day.
What Happens at Intermission
Here is some really important and practical information that I wish someone had told me before we went.
The restrooms are located outside of the theater itself. This means if you need to use the restroom at intermission, you will need to exit the theater space entirely. And here is the critical part. You will need your ticket to get back in. Do not leave your ticket at your seat. Keep it on your person at all times.
The restroom lines at intermission were genuinely very long. The crowd was large and everyone had the same idea at the same time. We took one look at the line and made the executive decision not to bother. My honest advice is to use the restroom before you go in. Do not wait until intermission and assume it will be quick and easy. It will not be.
The bars on each level are open at intermission so grabbing a drink is a great option if the line situation is more manageable. Just keep an eye on the time and make sure you are back in your seat before the second act begins. The show starts promptly and latecomers are held in the lobby.
Did the Run Time Feel Long?
Absolutely not. Not even a little bit.
I am being completely honest when I say that this show flew by faster than almost anything I have ever seen. When the lights came up for intermission I genuinely could not believe we were already halfway through. And when the final bow happened I sat there wishing it had been an hour longer.
That is the mark of truly exceptional storytelling and production. When nearly three hours feels like no time at all, the show has done something remarkable.
Stranger Things Broadway Stage Door: Everything You Need to Know
Do not sit and linger after the final bow. I cannot stress this enough.
The moment the cast takes their final bow, start making your way out of the theater and head straight to the stage door. Do not stop to chat, do not take your time gathering your things, and do not get caught in the crowd bottleneck at the exit. Move with purpose.
Where Is the Stranger Things Broadway Stage Door?
The Stranger Things Broadway stage door is located on 45th Street. As soon as you exit the theater, head toward 45th Street and follow the crowd. You will find a barricade set up where fans gather to wait for the cast.
The sooner you get to the barricade, the better your spot will be. The crowd builds incredibly fast once the show lets out. A good position at the front makes a huge difference for both getting autographs and capturing photos. Every second you spend lingering inside the theater is a spot at the barricade you are giving up to someone else.
How Long Do You Wait?
Plan for a wait of around 20 to 30 minutes after the show ends before cast members begin coming out. The actors need time to remove their costumes, take off their stage makeup, and decompress after a physically and emotionally demanding performance.
Evening performances tend to have a longer wait than matinees so keep that in mind when planning your day around the stage door.
Be patient. It is absolutely worth it.
What to Bring to the Stage Door
Here is your stage door packing list so you are fully prepared:
Your Playbill is the classic autograph item and every single person at that stage door will have one. It photographs beautifully and makes a wonderful keepsake.
A Sharpie marker is a good idea to bring along. Most cast members have their own markers available but having a silver Sharpie of your own as a backup is smart. It shows up beautifully on the dark Stranger Things program covers.
Your phone fully charged and ready for photos is essential. These moments go fast and you do not want to be fumbling with a dead battery.
If you have any additional items you would like signed such as photos or merchandise, bring those along too. Just keep it reasonable and be mindful of the people behind you waiting their turn.
Our Stage Door Experience
We did the stage door after seeing the show and it was an absolutely magical experience from start to finish.
The crowd was busy and energetic but it never felt chaotic or overwhelming. What struck us most was how every single cast member who came out made a genuine effort to reach every person at that barricade. They did not rush through and did not skip people. They took their time, signed autographs, took photos, and actually interacted with fans like real human beings.
That has genuinely not always been my experience at other Broadway stage doors. Some shows the cast comes out, waves, signs a few things, and disappears. That was not the case here at all. The Stranger Things Broadway cast treated every single fan like their presence mattered. Because to them, it clearly did.
We got to meet Louis McCartney, Gabrielle Nevaeh, Juan Carlos, Alex Breaux, Robert T. Cunningham, and Francesca Yhlen. Each one of them was warm, gracious, and genuinely lovely. My daughter was absolutely over the moon.
And we had no idea until right before the show started, that we would be seeing Louis McCartney’s very last performance in this role ever. Getting his autograph and being there for that final show is something my daughter will treasure for the rest of her life.
Stage Door Tips to Know Before You Go
A few final things worth knowing before you head to the stage door:
Get there early and get a spot at the barricade. Bring your own marker just in case. Be respectful of the cast and the other fans around you. Keep your phone ready but do not shove it in anyone’s face. Say thank you. Cheer when they come out.
Not every cast member comes out every night. Some nights schedules, commitments, or how demanding the show was will mean certain performers skip the stage door entirely. Do not take it personally and do not make it awkward. The ones who do come out are choosing to be there for you. Honor that.
The Stranger Things Broadway stage door is one of the most fan friendly experiences I have encountered on Broadway. If you have even the slightest interest in going, just do it. You will not regret it for a single second.
Our Honest Stranger Things Broadway Review: Worth the Trip?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 out of 5 stars. Zero hesitation.
Let me give you the most honest Stranger Things Broadway review I possibly can. Because you deserve the truth before you spend the money and make the trip.
The truth is this. It was one of the best nights of my life.
What Exceeded Every Expectation
I went in with high hopes. I left with my mind completely blown.
The special effects exceeded everything I had seen or read about before we went. And I had read a lot. The cast delivered performances that felt genuinely alive and urgent every single moment. The story was richer and more emotionally complex than I anticipated. The production quality from the scenic design to the lighting to the sound was operating at a level I have simply never experienced in a theater before.
I also did not expect to feel as emotionally connected to Henry Creel’s story as I did. I walked in knowing he would become a monster, and walked out understanding exactly how that happened. And that understanding made the entire Stranger Things universe feel more meaningful to me.
Seeing Harry Potter and the Cursed Child the night before set a very high bar. The Stranger Things Broadway show cleared it completely.
Anything That Could Have Been Better?
I am genuinely reaching here because I do not have many complaints at all.
The lobby and pre show experience inside the theater could have been a bit more immersive. Given the incredible world building happening on stage, a little more Hawkins atmosphere in the lobby would have been a fun addition. The merch situation being outside of the actual theater lobby felt slightly disconnected as well. Neither of these things affected the show itself in any way. They are just minor observations from someone who wanted even more of everything.
The restroom situation at intermission is worth mentioning again. The long lines and the fact that you need your ticket to re enter are logistical things the venue could handle more smoothly. Come prepared and you will be fine.
My Daughter’s Verdict
She is a die hard Stranger Things fan who has seen every episode of the show multiple times. She went in with extremely high expectations.
Here is what she said after the show. She would watch it again and again. Not just once more. Again and again.
That is the review right there. From a 13 year old super fan who knows every detail of this universe inside and out. The Stranger Things Broadway show delivered everything she hoped for and then some. Watching her experience that night is something I will carry with me for a very long time.
Who Should See the Stranger Things Broadway Show?
Here is my honest recommendation breakdown:
✅ Die hard Stranger Things fans — This is an absolute non negotiable must see. Period.
✅ Broadway newbies looking for a spectacle — If you have never seen a Broadway show and want to start with something unforgettable, this is the one. The effects alone will convert you into a Broadway fan for life.
✅ Parent and child bonding trips — We made a full NYC trip out of this experience and it is one of the greatest things I have ever done with my daughter. It is the kind of memory that sticks forever.
✅ Teens and tweens — My 13 year old was completely engaged for every single minute. This is a show that speaks directly to that age group in the best possible way.
✅ Anyone who loves great storytelling — Even my mom who had never seen a single episode of Stranger Things had an incredible time. Great theatre is great theatre regardless of what you know going in.
Would We See It Again?
Without a single second of hesitation, yes. Absolutely yes.
My daughter already wants to go back. I already want to go back. There is so much packed into this production that one viewing barely scratches the surface. The Easter eggs alone make a second viewing incredibly appealing. And knowing what we know now about the ending, experiencing the beginning again would hit completely differently.
The Stranger Things Broadway show is not just worth the trip. It is worth every penny, every mile, and every moment of planning it takes to get there. If you are on the fence, get off it. Buy the tickets. Make the trip. You will thank yourself later.
Planning to See Stranger Things on Broadway? Here Are Our Best Tips
You have read the review. You are convinced. Now let me help you actually plan your trip so you can have the best possible experience from start to finish.
Book Your Tickets Early
The Stranger Things Broadway show is a hot ticket and has been since it opened. Do not wait until the last minute and risk missing out or paying inflated resale prices. Head to the official Stranger Things Broadway website and book as early as you can. We bought ours about three weeks in advance and had a great selection of seats available. The longer you wait the more limited your options become.
Choose Your Day and Time Wisely
We did the 1pm Saturday matinee and loved it. A weekend matinee is a great option for families because it gives you the entire morning to explore the city beforehand and the whole evening free for dinner and more adventures after.
Weeknight performances tend to be less crowded and can sometimes be slightly less expensive than peak weekend shows. If your schedule is flexible, a weeknight visit might get you better ticket prices and a more relaxed overall atmosphere.
Whatever day you choose, arrive at least one hour before showtime. We got there at noon for our 1pm show and there was already a line forming. By the time doors opened there was a massive crowd behind us wrapping through the hotel lobby. Trust me on this one. An hour early is not too early.
Make a Full Trip Out of It
New York City deserves more than just a day trip. Stay for a few days and make the most of everything the city has to offer. The Marquis Theatre is right in Times Square which puts you within walking distance of some of the best restaurants, attractions, and experiences in the world.
We also saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child the night before our Stranger Things show and I cannot recommend that enough as a Broadway double feature. I will be sharing more posts about our full NYC trip including the Harry Potter experience so keep an eye out for those! I will link them here as they go live so you have everything you need in one place.
Dress for the Occasion
This is the fun tip I want every single person reading this to take seriously. Dress up.
This is a Stranger Things show set in 1959 Hawkins. A subtle nod to the show, an 80s inspired outfit, a Hawkins High t-shirt, anything that shows your fandom is going to make the whole experience feel even more special. My daughter dressed up and it made the photos so much more memorable. The audience is full of fans and people love seeing creative outfits. Embrace it.
Plan for the Stage Door
If the stage door is important to you, and after reading this post I hope it is, you need to factor it into your timing.
The moment the cast takes their final bow, start moving. Walk out of the theater and head straight to the stage door on 45th Street. Do not stop. Do not linger. Go directly there and get yourself a good spot at the barricade. Every minute you spend standing around inside is a better spot someone else is taking.
Plan for an extra 45 minutes to an hour after the show ends to account for the wait and the experience itself. It is absolutely worth building into your schedule.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the InterContinental Hotel and could not have been happier with that choice. It was only a 5 to 7 minute walk to the Marquis Theatre which made the whole day completely stress free. Being able to walk to the show, walk back after the stage door, and drop everything off without dealing with transportation was a huge plus. If you are looking for a hotel close to the theater, the InterContinental is a fantastic option right in the heart of the Times Square area.
Final Thoughts: A Memory We Will Never Forget
Do you remember the hook at the beginning of this post? The lights going dark. The music swelling. My daughter grabbing my arm so tight neither of us breathed for a full minute.
I have thought about that moment every single day since we got home.
More Than Just a Broadway Show
This trip was never really just about seeing a show. It was about my daughter and me sharing something we both love deeply in one of the greatest cities in the world. It was about three generations of our family sitting together in those red velvet seats at the Marquis Theatre experiencing something truly extraordinary. It was about watching my 13 year old’s face light up in a way that I will carry in my heart forever.
The Stranger Things Broadway show gave us all of that and so much more.
My mom came home and immediately started watching Stranger Things on Netflix. My daughter came home already planning how to go back. And I came home with a full heart and a camera roll that makes me smile every single time I scroll through it.
That is what great art does. It pulls you in, changes you a little, and sends you home wanting more.
If You Are Still on the Fence
Stop hesitating. Just go.
Book the tickets. Plan the trip. Dress up in your best Hawkins inspired outfit. Get there early. Stay for the stage door. Soak in every single second of it.
You will not regret a single moment. I promise you that from the bottom of my nerdy mom heart.
And if you are a reader who loves Stranger Things as much as we do, make sure you check out my post on books to read if you loved Stranger Things over on my other blog Bookish Mom. It is the perfect way to keep the Stranger Things feeling going long after the final bow.
Keep Exploring With Us
Here on Nerdy Girl Trends we cover everything that speaks to the nerdy, pop culture loving, fandom obsessed heart. From Broadway and anime to gaming and everything in between, there is always something new to explore together. Check out some of our other posts below and stick around because there is so much more NYC content coming your way including our full review of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child!
Now It Is Your Turn!
Have you seen the Stranger Things Broadway show? I want to hear everything about your experience in the comments below!
If you are still planning your trip, save this post right now so you have it ready when you need it. Every tip, every detail, and every piece of advice is right here waiting for you.
And if you have a fellow Stranger Things fan in your life who needs to see this show, share this post with them today. Send it to your best friend. Tag your mom. Forward it to whoever needs a little nudge to finally buy those tickets.
Because some experiences are too good not to share. And this one is absolutely one of them.
