The beloved story of The Karate Kid is ready to take a new stage. The Karate Kid – The Musical will launch its UK premiere tour next spring, opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 28 April 2026, according to an exclusive report by WhatsOnStage.
The stage adaptation brings fresh energy to the 1984 classic film starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita. The movie became a global hit, inspiring several sequels, a remake, and the Netflix series Cobra Kai. Earlier this year, the franchise continued with Karate Kid: Legends, featuring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio.
Writer Robert Mark Kamen, who penned the original screenplay, reflected on the show’s journey from screen to stage. “William Goldman said about Hollywood ‘No one knows anything.’ He was right. Who knew that 43 years after I wrote the original script for The Karate Kid, we would see these very same characters acting and singing on the British stage in a story that is as fresh and universally relevant as it was four decades ago.”
Related posts:
The musical made its world premiere in St Louis in 2022, drawing attention for its emotional storytelling and striking choreography. Now, the production is gearing up for a nationwide tour before setting its sights on the West End and Broadway.
The creative team features an accomplished lineup. The musical is written by Robert Mark Kamen with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini. It is directed by Amon Miyamoto, with choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid. Scenic design is by Derek McLane, costumes by Ayako Maeda, lighting by Bradley King, sound by Kai Harada, and projections by Peter Nigrini. John Clancy handles orchestrations, with Andrew Resnick overseeing music supervision and arrangements, and Tommy Kurzman designing wigs and hair.
Produced by Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, Kenny Wax, and John Gore, the tour’s casting will be revealed soon. Select stops are expected to go on sale, marking a new chapter for the enduring story of resilience, mentorship, and finding balance — themes that continue to resonate more than four decades later.
Stay locked in to PalabasTayo.com for your daily dose of film, TV, music, art, fashion, food, and all things lifestyle and entertainment like this. You may also follow and subscribe to our social media accounts: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, X, and Kumu.
