Preview: The Karate Kid - The Musical at Sunderland Empire

Iconic 80s Movie Makes Stage Debut at Sunderland Empire

The Karate Kid - The Musical

Sunderland Empire

Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 July 2026

Wax on, wax off—the beloved 1984 blockbuster is coming to life on stage in a major new musical production landing at Sunderland Empire this July as part of its UK premiere tour, ahead of planned West End and Broadway runs.

Written by Robert Mark Kamen, the original screenwriter behind the film that launched a 40-year global franchise, The Karate Kid - The Musical transforms the iconic story of Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi into an emotionally charged theatrical experience. With music and lyrics by award-winning composer Drew Gasparini, this production reimagines the heartfelt coming-of-age tale through movement, music, and raw, energetic storytelling.

The original Karate Kid film, starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, became a cultural phenomenon that has spawned three sequels, a 2012 remake with Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan, the hugely popular Netflix series Cobra Kai, and this year's Karate Kid: Legends. Morita's performance as the wise Mr. Miyagi earned him an Academy Award nomination, cementing the story's place in cinema history.

At the heart of this stage adaptation is the powerful bond between student and teacher, exploring themes of resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations. Mr. Miyagi's philosophy remains central: karate isn't about fighting—it's about balance, dignity, and respect.

The production received its world premiere in St. Louis in 2022, playing to sold-out houses and rave reviews. Now, a Tony Award-winning design team brings those iconic cinematic moments to the stage with kinetic choreography and stunning visuals that honour the timeless story while creating something fresh and theatrically dynamic.

Director Amon Miyamoto, who became the first Japanese director to helm a Broadway musical with Pacific Overtures, leads the creative team. He's joined by choreographers Keone and Mari Madrid, whose work spans Disney animation, music videos for artists like Justin Bieber and BTS, and Broadway productions. The design team includes scenic designer Derek McLane (Moulin Rouge!, MJ The Musical), costume designer Ayako Maeda, lighting designer Bradley King (Hadestown, Water for Elephants), and projection designer Peter Nigrini (Hell's Kitchen, Dear Evan Hansen).

Reflecting on bringing his 43-year-old screenplay to the British stage, Kamen notes that the story remains "as fresh and universally relevant as it was four decades ago"—a testament to the enduring appeal of Daniel's journey from bullied teenager to confident young man, guided by an unlikely mentor who becomes far more than just a karate teacher.

Tickets

The Karate Kid - The Musical
Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 July 2026
Sunderland Empire

Book at: ATGTickets.com/Sunderland

A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings

For more information visit: thekaratekidthemusicalUK.com