The "All-Valley" rivalry is moving from the screen to the stage as producers officially announce the full casting for the UK premiere tour of The Karate Kid – The Musical. Based on the 1984 Columbia Pictures hit, this new production features a book by the original screenwriter, Robert Mark Kamen, and a contemporary score by Drew Gasparini.
A Powerhouse Company
Leading the company as the iconic Mr. Miyagi is the acclaimed Singaporean actor Adrian Pang. Pang, known for his commanding presence in Shakespearean roles and recent turn in Salesman in China, brings a seasoned depth to the mentor role. Joining him in his professional stage debut is Gino Ochello as Daniel LaRusso.
The production also features:
Abigail Amin as Ali Mills
Joe Simmons as Johnny Lawrence
Matt Mills (MJ the Musical) as the formidable John Kreese
Sharon Sexton (Bat Out of Hell) as Lucille LaRusso
Finley Oliver as Freddie Fernandez
From Cinema to Stage
The musical honors the 40-year legacy of a franchise that has spanned four films, the 2010 remake, and the hit Netflix series Cobra Kai. Following a successful world premiere at STAGES St. Louis in 2022, this reimagined coming-of-age story uses "ground-breaking choreography" by Keone and Mari Madrid and a Tony Award-winning design team to bring the art of karate to life.
2026 Tour Dates and Destinations
The UK tour kicks off at the New Wimbledon Theatre on Tuesday, 28 April. The production will then travel to major cities including Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Birmingham, concluding this leg of the journey in Cardiff on 1 August.
Following the UK run, the production will make its Canadian premiere in Toronto this September, serving as a final springboard before highly anticipated runs on the West End and Broadway.
This stage adaptation promises to explore the timeless themes of balance and resilience, proving once again that the greatest victories are won from within. Tickets for all UK venues are now on sale.
