Stranger Sings! is a new musical parody based on the global hit Stranger Things, transporting audiences to the 1980s parallel universe. In search for Barb, the Upside-Down goes underground in London’s Waterloo theatre, putting an irreverent spin on the hit Netflix series. This award-winning off-Broadway sci-fi spoof combines an original Stranger Things storyline developed by London-based production company The Vaults, with a mix of original and parody songs, and Stranger Things-themed cocktails, including ‘Dem-Eggo-Gorgons’ ‘Tootsie Roll’ and a ’Banana Froze Slushie’.
Taking place in Hawkins, Indiana, in 1983, when life was simpler, hair was longer, and unattended children were abducted by extra-terrestrial beings, the acclaimed sci-fi parody is a wild, cheeky twist on the hit Netflix series. Set to debut this Autumn as The Vaults’ first in-house musical, Stranger Sings assures a night of indulgent pop culture references, heavy synth, bad parenting, and dancing demogorgons, all in campy 80s nostalgia.
After award-winning success in New York, the interactive musical Stranger Sings parody will make its UK premiere at London’s’ Vault Theatre. Stranger Sings received seven Off-Broadway Awards, including ‘Best New Musical, Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Original Choreography’, and after premiering in London this Autumn the show will hit the stage in Australia.
With book, music and lyrics by Jonathan Hogue, the London production is directed by Ellis Kerkhoven. Ellis is a London-based director and writer who previously co-directed multiple musicals such as Jack & The Beanstalk! with Estelle Van Warmelo.
Director Ellis Kerkhoven says “Working with the fabulous team on Stranger Sings The Parody Musical has been a blast. What could be more perfect during this rather oppressive and serious time in the World, than a whole dose of joy, silliness and shameless musical theatre?! Rehearsals have been fast, furious and fun – and directing this hilarious, talented cast has been a dream. As the show goes from strength to strength over in the US, we here in Team UK have worked for months, ensuring the show appeals to our sense of humour, creative tastes and caters for the nation’s insatiable appetite for 80’s retro nostalgia! Anyone who comes to see the show at the Vaults, a perfect ‘upside down’ venue(!) will leave uplifted and singing these fab songs for days!!”
Known as London’s home for immersive theatre and alternative arts, The Vaults’ mission is to collaborate and conspire, embracing artists from all walks of life to come together and inspire others. Set in a maze of disused railway arches under Waterloo station, The Vaults encourage those that have a natural affinity to the unusual, the daring and the unknown. Co-producing with innovative immersive theatre makers, The Vaults fuses together art forms and champions unsung voices, especially those of the LGBTQ+ community. They aim to make immersive experiences for all, focusing on big and current ideas told in outlandish, accessible, and most of all, fun, ways. The Vaults look for talented artists from every vocation to mutate their art, and produce work that is challenging, accessible and imaginative. Previous productions include Mulan Rouge, Goosebumps, and Dinner is Coming.
The Vaults are introducing Pay What You Can tickets across their seasonal program, to support those struggling to access culture in the current economic climate. Every Wednesday and Sunday Pay what You Can tickets are priced from £3 and bookable in advance. The season includes Witches of Oz, a drag dining cabaret in the Emerald City from 21st September – 15th January, and Peter Pan’s Labyrinth from 18th October – 15thJanuary.
Running Time: 100 minutes including interval | Suitable for ages 16+
The Vaults, Launcelot Street, London, SE1 7AD from %th October – 15th January. Times” Wd – Sun 7pm. Admission: Pay What You Can on Weds & Sun | Thurs from £30 | Fri & Sat from £39.50
Booking: www.thevaults.london/stranger-sings | 02074019603
