The wait is over for The Karate Kid fans, as the major new film-to-stage musical has started performances at the New Wimbledon Theatre in London.
The strictly limited London residency serves as the launchpad for a massive new UK tour and a high-profile transfer to Toronto this autumn, ahead of a planned arrival in the West End.
Check ticket availability for The Karate Kid The Musical in London.
Karate Kid photos released
The first production photos have been released for the show, which is written by Robert Mark Kamen based on his movie screenplay inspired by his own life.
From film classic to the stage
This new musical is based on the classic 1984 Columbia Pictures film and its sequels, including the new movie Karate Kid: Legends, and the hit Netflix show Cobra Kai.
Directed by Amon Miyamoto, the production promises to bring the film’s most iconic moments to life – from the legendary “wax on, wax off” training sessions to the high-stakes adrenaline of the All-Valley Championship. The story follows Daniel LaRusso’s journey of discipline and self-belief under the mentorship of Mr. Miyagi, reimagining the classic “underdog” tale for a new generation.
Meet The Karate Kid cast
Meet the cast
The cast of The Karate Kid The Musical is led by Adrian Pang (Salesman in China) as Mr Miyagi, with rising star Gino Ochello (Roles We’ll Never Play) as Daniel LaRusso, and Abigail Amin (Ink) as Ali Mills.
The show also stars Joe Simmons (Cruel Intentions) 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 (Get Down Tonight) as Freddie Fernandez.
The company is completed by 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.
Photos: The Karate Kid in rehearsals
Photos by Danny Kaan
Music by Drew Gasparini
Music and lyrics for The Karate Kid are by John Lennon Songwriters Award-winner Drew Gasparini (We Aren’t Kids Anymore).
Directed by Amon Miyamoto, The Karate Kid also has a book by Robert Mark Kamen, who wrote the original screenplay inspired by his own life. The wider creative team includes choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid, set design by Derek McLane, and costume design by Ayako Maeda.
This new stage adaptation reimagines Daniel LaRusso’s journey of friendship, discipline and self-belief. Through his mentor Mr Miyagi, Daniel learns that karate isn’t about fighting – it’s about balance, respect and perseverance.
Book tickets to The Karate Kid The Musical in London.
Music Video: Listen to ‘Method to His Madness’
Watch Gino Ochello sing ‘Method to His Madness’ from The Karate Kid.
Beyond London: The 2026 tour
Following its short London run ending on 9 May, the show will embark on a wide-reaching UK tour including Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Cardiff. The production then heads across the Atlantic to play Toronto from September to November 2026.
Plan your visit
- Venue: New Wimbledon Theatre, London
- Dates: 28 April to 9 May 2026
- Tickets: Now on sale
Post Updated: 1 May 2026 with production photos; First Published: 28 April 2026
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