With a new cast joining the West End production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow last week (14 November) and an extension announced until Autumn 2025, we caught up with actor Callum Maxwell to discuss taking on the role of Bob Newby and joining the Stranger Things universe.

For those who may not have seen it yet, what is Stranger Things: The First Shadow about and who do you play in the show?

Stranger Things: The First Shadow is an awe-striking live theatrical prequel to the Netflix series. I play a young version of Bob Newby, who is played on screen by Sean Astin.

How does it feel to be joining a show that has become so popular so quickly?

It’s an honour to be joining a show that already has a built-in fanbase. It raises the stakes because you want to match the level of the original cast who are spectacular. That said, I believe we’re more than up for the challenge.

And how are you feeling about making your West End debut?

I’m really excited. It’s all very new as I moved here for the show. I trained and have worked in Dublin for the last few years. Being immersed in Irish theatre, which is so full of beautiful storytelling and people at the top of their game. I’m excited to see what London has to offer!

Stranger Things: The First Shadow has become known as being a technical spectacle. What is it like to work on such a tech heavy production?

Honestly, it feels like I’m a child again! I mean, the floor moves. What else could you ask for? Watching the show is so exciting. Getting to experience the magic and illusions. But understanding how they work and getting to be a small part of their execution brings with it an entirely deeper level of respect for the brilliant technical team behind the production.

Is there a particular moment of the show you’re excited to share with audiences?

I’m just excited for people to see the relationships we’ve built with each other. The acting company we have this year is absolutely insane. All wonderful both on and off the stage. It’s been a pleasure working this long with them and I’m really looking forward to more!

Horror and supernatural stories have long been popular on stage. Why do you think audiences love these sorts of stories so much?

Culturally, Ireland has an extremely vivid and ancient tradition of storytelling. Our folklore is full of mythical monsters and magic and morals. I think the sense of the unknown has always excited people. Lingering on things that can’t quite be explained. Imagining and experiencing things outside the realm of possibility. What I think our show does an incredible job of is combining that mystery with genuine human moments which makes the whole thing feel more authentic.

Who would you recommend the show to? Can you see the show without having seen the TV series first?

I think the show is for everyone and anyone. If you like drama, you got it. Magic? Say no more. Spiders? We have tons! No, but seriously, I do think it meets a very diverse spread of interests and I promise you’ll find something to obsess over.

Stranger Things: The First Shadow is now booking at London’s Phoenix Theatre until 7 September 2025, with tickets available here.