Karate Kid Musical to play Sunderland before West End

Producers Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore and Kenny Wax are delighted to announce the UK premiere production of THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL will embark on a major UK Tour next spring, prior to the West End and Broadway. Written by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 movie that launched a 40-year strong global franchise, with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL will visit Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 14 - Saturday 18 July 2026.

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. The movie fast became a cultural phenomenon, launching a major global franchise that has included three movie sequels, a 2012 remake starring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan and the popular Netflix series Cobra Kai (2018 – 2025). This year saw the release of the sixth movie, Karate Kid: Legends starring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio. THE KARATE KID – THE MUSICAL received its world premiere in St. Louis, USA in 2022, playing to sold out houses with rave reviews from audiences and critics alike.

Bringing the original, now legendary 1984 film to life on stage, this heart-felt coming of age story is 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 transform iconic cinematic moments into an emotionally charged, kinetic stage experience. Honouring the roots of the timeless story, this musical celebrates resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Destiny is in your hands – wax on – wax off.

THE KARATE KID writer and creator Robert Mark Kamen says: “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.”

Written by Robert Mark Kamen with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini, THE KARATE KID- THE MUSICAL is directed by Amon Miyamoto, with choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid, scenic design by Derek McLane, costume design by Ayako Maeda, lighting design by Bradley King, sound design by Kai Harada, projection design by Peter Nigrini, orchestrations by John Clancy, music supervisor and arrangements by Andrew Resnick, wigs and hair design by Tommy Kurzman. Produced by Naoya Kinoshita, Kumiko Yoshii, John Gore and Kenny Wax.

Casting to be announced.

THE KARATE KID- THE MUSICAL will hit Sunderland Empire’s stage from Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 July 2026. General tickets on sale 10am, Friday 24 October at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland *

* A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings.