Full cast announced for Karate Kid musical UK Tour

The new musical, based on the Columbia Pictures motion picture 1984 film, will embark on a UK tour beginning in April 2026. The Karate Kid - The Musical will then head to Toronto in September, where it will make its Canadian premiere. There are plans for a West End and Broadway run in the future. The UK premiere comes after its world premiere in 2022 at STAGES in St. Louis, USA.

This new stage adaptation features a book by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 film that launched a 40-year global franchise, and music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini.

Acclaimed Singaporean performer Adrian Pang will lead the company as Mr. Miyagi, with Gino Ochello (professional stage debut) as Daniel LaRusso, Abigail Amin (Ink) as Ali Mills, Joe Simmons (Cruel Intentions, UK Tour) as Johnny Lawrence, Matt Mills (MJ The Musical) as John Kreese, Sharon Sexton (Bat Out of Hell: The Musical) as Lucille LaRusso, and Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez.

The ensemble includes Ambra Caserotti, Johndeep More, Ria Tanaka, Elena Breschi, Aden Dzuda, Elliott Evans, El Haq Latief, Isaac J Lewis, Emily Rose-Davis, Aaron Archer, Dylan Blake-Colbet, Serenar Douch, Esme Rothero and Sok-Ho Trinh.

Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this new musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations.

Daniel is the new kid in town trying to fit in until he becomes the target of Cobra Kai’s relentless star student, Johnny. Underestimated and outmatched, Daniel struggles to find his footing, until Ali, Johnny’s ex, sees something in Daniel that no one else does. As Johnny refuses to step aside, teenage rivalry turns into something more sinister. Daniel discovers guidance from Mr. Miyagi who teaches him that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, respect and that the greatest victories are won from within. 

Featuring a Tony Award®-winning design team and an electrifying new score, this coming-of-age masterpiece is reimagined for the stage with stunning artistry and ground-breaking choreography.

The UK tour opens at New Wimbledon Theatre on Tuesday 28 April before visiting Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Oxford, Milton Keynes, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Sheffield, Sunderland, Birmingham and Cardiff until 1 August. The Toronto season opens in September. Tickets are on sale at all venues.