Supernatural Netflix hit “Stranger Things” is coming to an end this fall after five years of journeys between 1980s Indiana and the terrifying realm of The Upside Down.

Along its wild ride, the show inspired a Broadway play that serves as a prequel to the streaming series, as well as a musical spinoff that’s played for laughs.

Theatre South Playhouse, in the southwest Orlando neighborhood of Dr. Phillips, will open “Stranger Sings: The Parody Musical” on Sept. 19.

Jonathan Hogue wrote the book, music and lyrics for the show, which premiered at New York City’s 54 Below in 2018 and then ran off-Broadway between 2021 and 2023.

Nick Bublitz will direct Theatre South Playhouse’s production, which will feature music direction by Natalie Hightower and choreography by Christopher Payen.

Bublitz took time away from the weirdness of Hawkins, Indiana, to answer five questions about the production.

1. What made you want to direct “Stranger Sings”? 

The source material grabbed me right away and hasn’t let go since 2016. “Stranger Things” is a cultural phenomenon that lit up my imagination and continues to do so nine years later as it enters its 5th and final season.

Each season has shaped iconic cultural moments throughout these last few years and is going to stun us all when it comes to a close this November. This musical lets me honor everything I have loved about the series in the most farcical, fast-paced manner.

In the Theatre South Playhouse production of “Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical,” Addison Ward plays Eleven. (Courtesy Theatre South Playhouse)

2. How does backstage differ from other shows you’ve worked on? 

This is true ensemble sprint. We have quick changes flying, an inordinate amount of ’80s props, and a very opinionated string of Christmas lights. That doesn’t even begin to cover the puppetry of a certain abducted child, bikes that behave like dance partners, and an unapologetic, timely tribute to the icon herself — Barb.

It takes trust, patience and a lot of wig maintenance.

3. What should the audience expect from the show?

There is a lot happening in this show. It is a layered parody musical that not only parodies “Stranger Things,” but ’80s culture and Broadway musicals. Our team is working overtime to hit every mark and squeeze out every laugh there is.

Jarrett Poore and Amy Sue Hardy play Hopper and Joyce in the Theatre South Playhouse production of “Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical.” (Courtesy Theatre South Playhouse)

4. What’s the main message you hope people take from the show?

Nerd culture is everywhere — embrace it in yourself and celebrate it. Choose your party. Protect your friends. And trust the woman who notices her son talking to her through flickering lights. Laughter is a shield and a sword. Also #JusticeforBarb.

5. Any final thoughts? 

With the series taking its final bow in November, it is literally the perfect time to celebrate what this phenomenon has meant to all of us. Bring your mix tape, your biggest laughs, and someone you would ride into the woods with.

Follow me at facebook.com/matthew.j.palm or email me at mpalm@orlandosentinel.com. Find more entertainment news and reviews at orlandosentinel.com/entertainment or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter.

‘Stranger Sings: The Musical Parody’

Where: Theatre South Playhouse in the Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, 7601 Della Drive in Orlando
When: Sept. 19-Oct. 5
Cost: $21.58 and up
Info: teachtix.com/tsplayhouse

https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/09/17/stranger-sings-theatre-south-playhouse-orlando/