Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Client:Netflix & Sonia Friedman Productions
Service:Custom SFX
Date:November 2023 – Present

The Brief

SFX Equipment Loaded Onto Lorry

LUMINOUS was asked to design, manufacture and install some special effects for Stranger Things: The First Shadow on the West End. For this prequel to the iconic TV programme, a complete special effects package was needed. The team had to create and provide SFX equipment that could be seamlessly integrated into scenery, staging and props.

If you’ve seen the Netflix hit, then you’ll know the story has some seriously cool effects on screen. Translating this into the theatre show required a little more precision. 

The Outcome

Venti Wind Machine SFX

With only 6 weeks’ notice on the final specifications, the LUMINOUS team quickly got to work on producing the custom elements. We provided an extensive special effects package which includes:

Exploding Light Fixtures

LUMINOUS developed a variety of light fixtures that would flash and then explode. The team designed these with sugar glass bulbs to ensure safety for technicians and performers on stage. Accompanied by mechanical break mechanisms and pyrotechnic sparks, this was a prominent special effect from the original Stranger Things story. 

Rubble Drops

To create a prop drop, the team modified chandelier winches to support 4 automated drop boxes. These were filled with soft rubble and placed 10 metres above the audience. For seamless integration and simple control for technicians, this effect was synchronised with the DMX control system, with the winches providing quick and easy re-loading. 

Sparks Everywhere

Throughout the show, there were more than 20 cues where sparks needed to be integrated into scenery, props and even in the auditorium. This required a broad range of solutions from pyrotechnic ‘bullet hits’ to airbursts. LUMINOUS even used modified Sparxtar machines that projected sparks through custom ducting.

 

Since its launch, the show has been a huge success and been critically acclaimed with rave reviews. LUMINOUS regularly coordinates SFX consumable deliveries for the show. We provide pyrotechnics, spark powder, snow and smoke fluid.