Stranger Things star Noah Schnapp is making the leap from Hawkins to the London stage with his world stage debut in Affluenza. Schnapp is best known for playing Will Byers in Netflix’s beloved sci-fi series, a role he took on as a child and grew up portraying in the spotlight. His film credits include Bridge of Spies and Waiting for Anya. Now, Schnapp is embracing a new challenge with his first major stage role. 

From Hawkins’ supernatural horrors to the Hamptons’ world of wealth and privilege, Schnapp is taking on a project that shows a very different side of his acting. 

Noah Schnapp is set to make his world stage debut in London, taking on a leading role in Affluenza at Riverside Studios, Variety revealed on August 13. The production is part of the venue’s Mainstage Season 26/27 and will run from September 26 to November 21. Written and directed by artistic director Andy Sandberg, the play will give the Stranger Things star an opportunity to step away from the screen and explore a new side of his acting through live theater. 

“I am so excited to make my stage debut in London with Affluenza,” said Schnapp, expressing his enthusiasm about taking on the new challenge. 

In his statement to Variety, Schnapp disclosed that he had been in talks with Sandberg for a couple of months regarding the type of project that they should take on. The actor confessed that he had been very careful when choosing his next role. As Schnapp was getting to know more about the script, he realized that he was becoming increasingly attached to its characters. 

The play is centered around the tragedy of a teenage boy whose choice to drive under the influence has led to a life-changing event. As the case unfolds, it raises the troubling question of whether wealth can make people lose sight of right and wrong. Affluenza is inspired by actual events and a controversial defense case, making it explore the issues of influence and accountability. 

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The play’s focus on wealth and privilege sets up a stark contrast with Schnapp’s familiar Stranger Things role. 

Noah Schnapp, who recently opened up about his friend-crush on set, is famous for his part in Stranger Things as Will Byers, the sensitive boy who is kidnapped by the evil force from another world and is rescued after causing several disturbances in his town. Then, as the storyline proceeds, he gains more prominence in the fight against the powers threatening the town of Hawkins. However, his journey also sees him remain deeply connected to the Upside Down, making him an important link between Hawkins and the supernatural forces threatening the town. 

Meanwhile, with Affluenza, Schnapp is leaving behind the role that made him a household name and taking on a new challenge in live theater. His London debut allows him to explore complex characters while showing a different side to his acting. Schnapp’s jump from the supernatural world of Hawkins to theatre, with the play tackling themes of plutocracy instead of horror, could be a thrilling new chapter for his career. 

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Will Noah Schnapp’s Affluenza debut show a new side of the Stranger Things star? Let us know in the comments.