Stranger Sings – Theatre Royal, St Helens

A playful teasing of the popular TV show which knows its audience well. Backed by a full set of original 80s bubble-gum pop synth beats make for a fun night for fans and mouth breathers alike. 

The popular science fiction horror series, Stranger Things, based around the unusual supernatural happenings in a small Indiana town, sparked a resurgence in bad haircuts and introduced a younger generation to the iconic Kate Bush. Its growing fandom, a reflection of its richness and texture that makes up the brilliance of the Netflix series. The nerdy quirkiness of its characters who inhabit the small town of Hawkins and their interpersonal relationships, provide the best source of parodic material.  

With Book, Music and Lyrics by Jonathan Hogue, Stranger Sings presents original songs and witty dialogue which playfully tease the plot and premise of the original. Turning the alternate dimension, the ‘Upside Down’ on its head, with dancing Demogorgons and the homage to 80s pop culture ramped up to new levels of shell suit silliness.

The main thread of Stranger Sings mostly aligns with series one and the disappearance of Will (the delicacies of this character perfectly portrayed here in puppet form), whilst plucking recognisable thematic elements from series two and three.  The clever plot intricacies deeply entwined within the writing of Stranger Things, a combination of science fiction, horror and the supernatural isn’t delved into too much as to not to bamboozle or alienate any audience members who somehow bypassed the series.  However, there are plenty of references to plot devices and tropes which would certainly be lost for those not familiar with the show.

The talented cast of 8 successfully find the comedic elements in their characterisations, their imitations magnify the familiar mannerisms, with each character’s entrance met with audible delight from the audience. Alfie Doohan’s portrayal of heartthrob Steve is captured perfectly, his physicality and facial expressions are topped off with a big flop of hair.  A brilliant contrast to the quiet awkwardness of Doohan’s Jonathan, whose goofy awkward stance is laugh out loud funny.  

The doubling up of characters works to some extent, and perhaps a sound decision for a UK tour, however this causes some minor disruptions to the flow of the story during costume changes and some of the changes are too subtle making it momentarily confusing. Which perhaps adds to the comedic chaotic nature. Nancy’s nerdy pal and fan favourite Barb, brilliantly brought to life by Philippa Leadbetter is finally given some justice by Hogue. Stranger Sings is Barb’s time to shine, evident from her musical medley, humorously metaing her existence on the show where she was simply thrown to the side as a plot device.     

Justin Williams’s set design wonderfully captures the familiar settings, central is the lift doors of the Hawkins National Laboratory, framed on one side by Joyce’s home with the Christmas lights and alphabet on the wall, and on the other Mike’s den.  Clever inclusion of additional set pieces and props, such as the Chopper handlebars and lights, easily transports the audience around the familiar Hawkins locations under the competent direction of Ellis Kerkhoven. 

Kudos goes to the whole company for delivering an energetic and rousing performance despite a bout of sickness and some technical issues resulting in a late start and a condensed performance.  Ally Kennard did a brilliant job stepping in to read in for the role of Will/Joyce, leaving the talented cast unfazed.   

There are several references to sex and swearing hence the show is recommended 16+.

Stranger Sings is on a UK tour until 31^st May 2024, to purchase tickets please visit https://www.strangersingsuk.com/buy-tickets

Reviewer: Gill Lewis

Reviewed: 23^rd January 2024

North West End UK Rating: