The UK premiere of THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL will embark on a major UK Tour next spring
Written by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 movie that launched a 40-year strong global franchise, with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL will open at New Wimbledon Theatre on Tuesday 28 April.
The original Karate Kid blockbuster starring Ralph Macchio as Daniel LaRusso and Pat Morita as Mr Miyagi enjoyed spectacular box office success and wide critical acclaim, with Morita receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
The movie fast became a cultural phenomenon, launching a major global franchise that has included three movie sequels, a 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan and the popular Netflix series Cobra Kai (2018 – 2025).
This year saw the release of the sixth movie, Karate Kid: Legends starring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL received its world premiere in St. Louis, USA in 2022, playing to sold out houses with rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.
Bringing the original, now legendary 1984 film to life on stage, this heart-felt coming of age story is
reimagined through movement, music, and raw, energetic storytelling. At its heart is the powerful bond between Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi, who teaches that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, dignity, and respect.
A Tony Award-winning design team transforms iconic cinematic moments into an emotionally charged, kinetic stage experience. Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Destiny is ni your hands – wax on – wax of.
Written by Robert Mark Kamen with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL is directed by Amon Miyamoto, with choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid, scenic design by Derek McLane, costume design by Ayako Maeda, lighting design by Bradley King, sound design by Kai Harada, projection design by Peter Nigrini, orchestrations by John Clancy, music supervisor and arrangements by Andrew Resnick, wigs and hair design by Tommy Kurzman. Produced by Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore and Kenny Wax.
Casting to be announced.
THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL UK TOUR 2026
28 April – 9 May
WIMBLEDON New Wimbledon Theatre
12 – 23 May
MANCHESTER PalaceTheatre
26 – 30 May
LEEDS Grand Theatre
2 – 6 June
LIVERPOOL Empire Theatre
9 – 13 June
OXFORD New Theatre
16 – 20 June
Milton Keynes Theatre
30 June – 4 July
GLASGOW Theatre Royal
7 – 11 July
SHEFFIELD Lyceum Theatre
14 – 18 July
SUNDERLAND Empire
12 – 25 July
BIRMINGHAM The Alexandra
28 July – 1 August
CARDIFF Wales Millennium Centre
Further dates to be announced
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