Wax on, wax off: 80s hit movie Karate Kid heads to stage for UK tour

The Karate Kid - The Musical will embark on the major tour from next spring, prior to opening in London’s West End and on Broadway, New York City.

Written by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 movie that launched a 40-year strong global franchise, the show will open at New Wimbledon Theatre on Tuesday 28th April, before touring nationwide until Saturday 1st August 2026.

Starting with rates for groups of ten plus, there are various offers for tickets including money off mid-week matinee shows. 

“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.”

Karate Kid writer and creator Robert Mark Kamen

The Karate Kid phenomenon

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.

It fast became a cultural phenomenon, leading to three movie sequels, a 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan and the popular Netflix series Cobra Kai. 

This year saw the release of the sixth movie, Karate Kid: Legends starring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio.

About the musical

The stage adaptation premiered in St. Louis, USA, in 2022, playing to sold out houses with rave reviews. The coming of age story is said to be 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 what has been described as an emotionally charged, kinetic stage experience. Honouring the roots of the original story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. 

The Karate Kid writer and creator Robert Mark Kamen said: “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.”