Latest news with #TheFirstShadow
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Stranger Things: First Shadow': Louis McCartney on ‘creating a language through the movement' to play the tortured Henry Creel
'When I get out there, I'm not giving first,' says Louis McCartney on the exchange of energy between him and the audience each night at Stranger Things: The First Shadow. "They're there and they're tapping, whooping, cheering, screaming immediately. They're ready to have a good night." McCartney plays the central role of Henry Creel in the new Broadway play, which serves as a prequel to the hit Netflix series. In a recent interview with Gold Derby, McCartney describes how the excited energy of American audiences helps propel him through a physically demanding performance. Stranger Things fans enter the theater already familiar with the character Henry Creel. Raphael Luce portrays a young version of Henry in a Season 4 flashback, while Jamie Campbell Bower embodies the adult version and his twisted villainous form known as Vecna. The First Shadow takes place in 1959, when a teenage Henry arrives in Hawkins, Ind. More from GoldDerby How Amy Sherman-Palladino's rapid-fire 'Étoile' dialogue kept French stars Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou de Laáge on their toes Cyndi Lauper, Mariah Carey are your top choices for the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame [Poll Results] 'Awards Magnet': The Emmy implications after Joel's death on 'The Last of Us'for Netflix McCartney says there is 'a strange giving and taking' between his stage iteration of the character and his on-screen counterparts. The actor points towards Bower's performance during a scene with Eleven in the Rainbow Room of Hawkins lab as particularly inspiring. 'It was revolutionary for me, for my work,' he explains, 'It kind of encapsulated his darker side. And in the play, I guess my job is to deal with this nerdy kid who is a good kid and he wants to do right.'Many of Luce's expressions helped McCartney draw a line between Henry's earnest younger self and his ultimate path to darkness. 'There's this haunted look of dissection,' he says of Luce's portrayal. 'He's constantly questioning if he wants to step away. And in our play, we're dealing with this tearing of structural values and morals in a young kid because he's so malleable. And my question was how do you connect the dots between Vecna and a nerd?' McCartney finds fascination in the 'dichotomy' that resides in Henry. He is careful to telegraph the boy's humanity while also showcasing the pull towards wrath and hate, due to a supernatural connection to the evil Mind Flayer of the Upside Down. 'He feels all these things constantly as he's trying to suppress them,' notes the actor. SEE'Stranger Things: The First Shadow' reviews: Critics praise the 'visceral thrill ride,' but lament its lack of 'emotional connection' The tender side of Henry is on full display within his unlikely friendship with Patty Newby (Gabrielle Nevaeh). For the first time, Henry finds someone with shared interests, with whom he can confide in. 'He'll follow somebody if they tell him what he's doing is good because that's what he wants. And when he meets Patty, it's this new version of good that he's never experienced before,' says McCartney. Patty is perhaps the only character who sees the good in Henry, one glimmer of light in his otherwise very dark world. 'She does say to him that being weird is okay and that it's okay to be yourself, which is a big question we throw at the audience the whole time, of how do you feel about yourself? And it's nice to see people fit in because a lot of us don't normally in our everyday lives,' notes McCartney. 'His relationship to fear, to social anxiety, to relationships, to happiness is something that I personally can feel at any point in my day as well.' The First Shadow is stuffed to the brim with eye-popping special effects. One of McCartney's most pivotal scenes involves a true test of the trust between Henry and Patty, as the two actors fight their way through a nightmarish vision sequence in the school bathroom. There will be no spoilers here, but safe to say that the terrifying illusions and physical feats in this sequence have the audience screaming and roaring with applause every night. 'That scene is just bonkers,' admits McCartney, as he describes the ultra precise timing and breathing required to execute each illusion. 'I get out of the scene and I'm absolutely pooped,' says the actor. 'It's so scary. It's so thrilling. I love hearing everybody's reactions.' In addition to these effects-driven moments, Henry also experiences countless fits of mental anguish and violent convulsions as dark forces work their way into his mind. McCartney credits 'time and patience and practice' for being able to sustain the physical toll of the role for an eight-show week, but confesses that it's not easy. There are several movement captains keeping an eye on the actor's stamina and he is greatly aided by finding 'an arc of movement' as the Mind Flayer gains control of Henry. 'We're starting it off basically as this baby Mind Flayer. And by the end of the play, it's like an alien, it's like a face hugger, and it's completely enveloping him,' describes McCartney as he demonstrates how the flick of his arms grows in intensity during the play. 'Creating a language through the movement was really important because I feel that much of the emotional breakdowns are in tandem with the physical breakdowns,' explains the actor, 'because one is his heart and his humanity, and the other is the Mind Flayer and the power that comes with that. And that's the character.' SIGN UP for Gold Derby's free newsletter with latest predictions Launch Gallery: 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow': Broadway sneak peek Best of GoldDerby 'It should be illegal how much fun I'm having': Lea Salonga on playing Mrs. Lovett and more in 'Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends' 'Death Becomes Her' star Jennifer Simard is ready to be a leading lady: 'I don't feel pressure, I feel joy' 'Boop! The Musical' star Jasmine Amy Rogers uses her own 'quirky little eccentricities' to bring iconic cartoon character to life Click here to read the full article.
Buzz Feed
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Louis McCartney Stranger Things The First Shadow Interview
There are some spoilers ahead for Stranger Things: The First Shadow. First, what was the audition process like for Henry Creel? Since it's not just a play but something in the Stranger Things world, was the process pretty secretive? The play is directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, with Stephen being renowned for his work on Billy Elliot, The Crown, and more, and Justin having just directed Prima Facie with Jodie Comer. How was it working with the two of them on this show? What's your favorite movie? Or a performance that made you want to become an actor? Since we know where Henry Creel ultimately ends up in Stranger Things, did you take any inspiration from Jamie Campbell Bower's performance as Vecna/Henry in Stranger Things Season 4? Personally, my favorite characters are often the villains who you're able to find the humanity in, and that's exactly what happens in The First Shadow with us seeing Henry before he becomes Vecna. How was it finding the nuances in him and the childlike moments? So much so that the audience really can forget where Henry ends up. Is there a Stranger Things Easter egg or detail in The First Shadow that you love? Or one fans haven't spotted yet? The Stranger Things fanbase is so into it that one of the wildest parts of sitting in the theater is watching the reaction when the theme song plays for the first time. What is it like seeing that happen night after night? What's the last TV show you binge-watched? Or one you are hyperfixated on right now? Were you a Broadway fan growing up? One of the most important relationships in the play is Henry and Patty, who is Bob Newby's sister. How has it been working with Gabrielle Nevaeh, because the two of you have such great chemistry? Being the only cast member to carry over between productions, what have been some surprising differences (or similarities) between West End audiences and the Broadway audiences? Who have you been the most starstruck by? Or who've you been surprised to find out came and saw Stranger Things: The First Shadow? Stranger Things: The First Shadow is really an amazing technical feat, and unlike anything on Broadway right now. Is there an illusion or moment that's the most technically challenging to perform every night? If you were to create a playlist for Henry Creel, what songs would you put on it? What's one book or book series you think everyone should read at least once? And finally, what have been your favorite places to visit in New York City? You can catch Louis as Henry Creel in Stranger Things: The First Shadow on Broadway now. For tickets and more info click here.
The South African
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
Stranger Things cast reunite for thrilling Broadway debut
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 . 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. 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 Stranger Things production, 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'. 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. 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?' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Yahoo
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
See' Stranger Things 'cast reunite for Broadway prequel show's opening night: 'Welcome to the 'ST' universe'
The stars of Stranger Things traveled all the way from Hawkins to the Big Apple to show their support for the series' new prequel play, Stranger Things: The First Shadow, on its Broadway opening night. Cast members Charlie Heaton, Natalia Dyer, Noah Schnapp, Jamie Campbell Bower, Priah Ferguson, Brett Gelman, Cara Buono, and Matthew Modine all posed for photographs outside the Marquis Theatre in New York City before the curtain went up Tuesday evening. Series creators Matt and Ross Duffer and executive producer and director Shawn Levy joined them in several snapshots. Their attendance comes just days after costar Sadie Sink, who is currently performing across the street in the new play John Proctor Is the Villain, also made a visit to the production. In fact, several of the series' stars got the chance to meet their Broadway counterparts while backstage at the event. Modine, who plays Dr. Brenner, posed for photographs with stage actor (and future season 5 star) Alex Breaux, while Bower and stage actor Louis McCartney exchanged hugs during their own Creel family reunion. Directed by Stephen Daldry and Justin Martin, Stranger Things: The First Shadow tells the origin story of the young Henry Creel. As the troubled teen wrestles with his fledgling powers, he encounters several beloved characters from the Netflix hit like Joyce, Hopper, and Bob. Schnapp, who plays Will Byers on the show, posted a photo of the series cast and stage actors at the event on his Instagram Story, writing, 'Welcome to the ST universe.' In a separate Instagram post, the 20-year-old actor called the play a "must-watch" for Stranger Things stans. "This cast is incredibly talented and hard-working. Every detail — the special effects, music, costumes, writing — is all top-tier," he wrote. "Everyone who is a Stranger Things fan cannot miss [The First Shadow]." Entertainment Weekly expressed similar praise for the production in its review, calling it a "frightening, immersive, nonstop thrill ride of a play that successfully transports audiences into the television series with its stunning illusions, masterfully crafted sets, and moving performances." If that weren't enough to get you fully onboard, the Duffer Brothers explained to Entertainment Weekly in late 2023 that the production "definitely gives fans some not-so-subtle teases and hints as to where certain storylines are heading in season 5," adding that "it touches on several themes and ideas that we will continue to explore in the show." At the time, writer Kate Trefry said The First Shadow pulls back the curtain on some of the series' burning questions. "Why Hawkins? Why is this happening here? Why is Hawkins Lab there? Why is Brenner there?" she said. "It was important to me to give the town an original sin that it would then be punished for in these events that play out over the course of many decades. It could be any town, which is to say every town has a shadow." Stranger Things: The First Shadow is playing now at Broadway's Marquis Theatre. Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly
New York Times
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow' Review: An Origin Story for the Stage
If the economic point of entertainment franchises is to generate new forms of interconnected content, then theater is merely another logical outlet for a property, alongside movies, TV shows, comic books, video games and theme parks. So now here we are with 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow,' the latest pop-culture phenomenon to manifest into the Broadway dimension. As far as its plot is concerned, the play that just opened at the Marquis Theater fits neatly into the lore of 'Stranger Things,' a wildly popular Netflix series about a fictional Indiana town at the juncture of terrifying government experiments and supernatural forces. This production is big, loud, often ingenious and occasionally breathtaking, in a 'how the hell did they do this?' kind of way. In other words, 'The First Shadow' fulfills its franchise requirements in terms of spectacular art direction and compliance to the series' canon (to which it adds tantalizing tidbits). Whether it is satisfying as a piece of theater is a dicier proposition. Based on a story by the Duffer Brothers (who created the series), Jack Thorne ('Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,' a co-creator of the current Netflix phenomenon 'Adolescence') and Kate Trefry, 'The First Shadow,' written by Trefry, is a prequel to the series. More specifically, it piggybacks on Season 4, which is set in 1986, and tells the origin story of that season's primary antagonist, Vecna — the teenager Henry Creel in 1959, when the main plot of the Broadway play takes place. If Vecna doesn't ring a bell, or if you don't know that Eleven is better than One, don't fret: It's possible to follow the show anyway, and to enjoy it. But it's hard to deny that audience members who understand those references will have access to more layers of 'The First Shadow.' In a rare switch of point of view for 'Stranger Things,' which tends to look at the action from the good guys' perspective, the play focuses on the troubled, lonely Henry (Louis McCartney, a transfer from the London world-premiere production from 2023). He just moved to Hawkins, Ind., with his parents (T.R. Knight and Rosie Benton) and younger sister (Azalea Wolfe at the performance I attended). We know from the start that Henry has some kind of telekinetic abilities that cause him great turmoil. He is both resigned to feeling different and anguished about it, so he is almost shocked to make a friend at his new high school: Patty Newby (Gabrielle Nevaeh), the principal's adopted daughter and another kid who feels like an outcast. Patty might not be in the Netflix series (at least not so far), but the play features a network of characters who will be familiar to TV viewers, albeit in their grown-up versions. They include Patty's brother, Bob (Juan Carlos), an ebullient nerd and the founder of the Hawkins High A.V. Club; the police chief's son, James Hopper Jr. (Burke Swanson); and Joyce Maldonado (Alison Jaye), the ambitious director of the school play. Here Dr. Brenner (Alex Breaux) is around as an adult, handsome and already diabolical. Easter eggs abound. The show starts with the kind of technically demanding, visually ambitious coup de théâtre most productions save for later — think battleship at sea, shrieks of pain and terror and, of course, paranormal dimensions. The director Stephen Daldry and the co-director Justin Martin can't sustain that intensity for almost three hours, but they sure do try: The production is pitched at 10, except when it's at 11. Even the scenes involving a school play ('Dark of the Moon,' a real Broadway show from 1945) have a semi-hysterical tone, usually set by the relentless Joyce. While there are some fun jump scares, they, by nature, come and go quickly. For the most part, the show doesn't mine the suspenseful, lingering dread that the series effectively deploys to keep you on the edge of your seat. The most potent source of tension is Henry, whom McCartney, in the show's standout performance, plays with a sense of existential torment. Henry exudes an eerie calm and a creepy determination, most evidently in his scenes with his overbearing mother and Dr. Brenner. 'You're definitely not the Devil,' Patty reassures her new friend. 'You're just a weirdo.' What she doesn't know is that Henry is a weirdo who uses his powers in terrifying ways. The fate of Henry's victims ranks among the most arresting moments in a show that has quite a few of them. The production is at its technical best when seamlessly combining Miriam Buether's set, which includes a diner where the kids hang out, with mechanical and digital wizardry, while the theater occasionally rattles with infra-bass for extra mood. It's worth highlighting the teams that brought the dark side of Hawkins to life: the illusions and visual-effects design is by Jamie Harrison and Chris Fisher (both of whom worked on 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child'); the video design and visual effects are by the 59 company; Paul Arditti did the sound design and Jon Clark the lighting. Except for the cheesy rendering of an animatronic-like Mind Flayer, it's all rather impressive. But it also feels a little hollow. A major reason for the success of 'Stranger Things' is that you don't walk away thinking just about battles in parallel realities, but about the emotions and relationships of people who feel very real in a town that also feels very real. It's grounded in an intimacy and details that are mostly absent here. In the making-of documentary 'Behind the Curtain: Stranger Things the First Shadow,' Trefry (who is also a writer on the series) says that you can't do a close-up, a montage or a hard cut onstage. The thing is, you can, but it requires resourcefulness and craft that are different from the ones involved in making spiders look realistic or a person fall in slow motion. Because it is locked into an operatic volume, 'The First Shadow' never quite finds the grace notes and tonal variations that would bring out the show's sadness and horror.
